When reporters entered the Red Wings' locker room after today's practice, Brian Rafalski looked over at the man to his right, Nicklas Lidstrom, and announced, "Lidstrom passed Cheli on the all-time scoring list."

With two assists, Tuesday, Lidstrom has 949 career points. Chelios has 948. Lidstrom is now ninth on the NHL's all-time scoring list for defensemen, nine points behind Larry Robinson.

Chelios won't soon be gaining on Lidstrom. The veteran has been sidelined all season with a fractured leg.

"I told Cheli I couldn't wait for him," joked Lidstrom.

Ray Bourque is the NHL's all-time leading scorer among defensemen with 1,579 points.