Yzerman excuses Foote's stick

By Ted Kulfan / The Detroit News

DETROIT — Steve Yzerman was back at Red Wings’ practice Tuesday with a new look and a clear head.

Yzerman was wearing a face guard on his helmet to protect his jaw and braces on his teeth, the result of Colorado defenseman Adam Foote’s high stick to Yzerman’s mouth during Thursday’s 3-2 Wings’ victory.

Nevertheless, Yzerman, who expects to play tonight against San Jose, absolved Foote of any wrongdoing after the NHL did not suspend him for the incident.

Foote’s attempt to lift Yzerman’s stick, Yzerman said, was unsuccessful and the stick slipped.

“After seeing it (the replay) on television, I didn’t expect any suspension,” Yzerman said. “Obviously, we’re all responsible for our sticks, but things happen. I’ve done the same thing, and hit a guy in the face.”

The braces are stabilizing the four teeth that were knocked loose by the high stick.

“The dentist put them back in place,” Yzerman said. “We’ll see if they stay in or not.”

Yzerman will have to wear the braces for approximately six weeks, at which point he’ll know whether the teeth can be salvaged.

Yzerman is able to chew solid food, but carefully and only on one side of his mouth.

What did his kids think about the braces?

“They thought it was pretty neat actually,” Yzerman said.

And his wife, Lisa?

“She hasn’t said much about it yet,” Yzerman said.