Fan selling “Al the Octopus” from Joe Louis Arena for hefty price!

One of the oldest and most beloved traditions held by Detroit Red Wings fans is the throwing of an octopus onto the ice, especially during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. It stems from the days of the Original 6 when only eight victories were needed to capture hockey's Holy Grail; brothers Pete and Jerry Cusimano were the first to do so at Olympia Stadium in 1952. 

A giant "Al the Octopus" (named for the former long-time Zamboni driver and building manager Al Sobotka) mascot was always on display outside of the Gordie Howe Entrance at Joe Louis Arena during playoff season in addition to a separate mascot hanging from the venue's rafters above the ice. And now, that mascot is officially up for sale for a hefty price. 

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