Nicklas Lidstrom said that his success in 2010-11 influenced his decision to postpone his retirement for another season. Lidstrom scored 16 goals and 62 points in 82 games last season after recording 49 points in 2009-10. "If I would've taken a step back from last year, this could've been a different decision," Lidstrom admitted. Even at the age of 41, Lidstrom should still be considered one of the best offensive defenseman in the league going into the 2011-12 season.