1970-73 NHL Detroit Red Wings 

#15 Al Karlander Game Worn Jersey

This red dureen jersey was worn in the 1970-73 period by #15 Al Karlander of the NHL Detroit Red Wings. The identifying factor lies in the presence of the particular size of "Olympic" tag and black collared size 48 tag that still remains sewn into the back collar. The chest measures 26" across and length is 31", maintaining its original integrity. 

Heavy wear in the form of 24 team repairs, heavy board burns, sweat and equipment stains, black stick marks and pilling.

Al Karlander wore #15 for Detroit from 1969-70 through the 1972-73 seasons. He was the first player ever drafted by an NHL team directly from the NCAA. (Michigan Tech in 1967). 

The provenance on this jersey is exquisite. Global Vintage obtained this jersey from a private collector with strong ties to former Flin Flon Bombers of the WCHL 1950's, 60's and 70's. He obtained this jersey directly from former Flin Flon Bomber and Detroit Red Wing player, Dennis Polonich.  

Dennis Polonich first played in Detroit in January 1975. The latest that this jersey could have been worn in game action, however, was the end of the 1972-73 season based on the fact that the Red Wings switched to a "reverse" style crest beginning in 1973/74. My initial theory as to how and why Dennis Polonich would have obtained this jersey, was that the jersey was likely kept by the team to be used in subsequent training camps, photo shoots, etc.  My theory was then verified when I discovered photos of the players on 1974/75 and 1975/76 OPC / Topps trading cards wearing these pre-1973 style Red Wing jerseys, including a great photo match of Bill Hogaboam wearing this #15 jersey in his 1974/75 OPC trading card. 

This is the first Detroit Red Wings jersey from the 1970-73 period that I have ever come across. It remains with fabulous colour and eye appeal. It will come with a comprehensive and detailed Letter of Authenticity outling the provenance and photo match.