Sid played in the NHL for 13 seasons, mostly for the Detroit Red Wings. He was part of the Stanley Cup winning teams in 1943, 1950 and 1952. Sid was a member of the "Production Line" with Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay. He won the Hart trophy as the NHL most valuable player in 1949.

In 1952-53, Sid was traded to the Black Hawks where he was player/coach for two seasons. He resumed his coaching career in 1957-58 with the Red Wings where he would spend the next 11 seasons. In the 1970's and 80's, Sid worked as a color commentator on Red Wings broadcasts. Sid died on February 7, 2000 at the age of 81.

This wire photo was taken during the press conference when Sid was named general manager of the Kansas City NHL franchise. This was prior to the Scouts even being named. The wire photo reads "Sid Abel (center), newly hired general manager of the Kansas City National Hockey League franchise, expresses hope at a news conference the team will contend with others in the NHL within two years after entering competition in 1974-75.  Abel, who resisned as general manager of the St. Louis Blues, was presented by Edwin Thompson (left), president of the newest NHL member, yet to be named. Also pictured is Kansas City Mayor Charles B. Wheeler, Jr."

The wire photo is in nice condition and the signature is beautiful.