Detroit Red Wings sign Free Agent Fabian Brunnstrom, release Ryan Johnson into minor leagues -NHL
Detroit Red Wings finalised their 23 man roster on Monday, October 10, by signing unrestricted free agent forward, Ryan Johnson, to a one-year, two-way contract, worth an estimated $600,000 if he plays in the National Hockey League (NHL) and $105,000 for
his contribution in the minor leagues.
For Brunnstrom, who played his last major league game with Dallas Stars back in the 2009-2010 season, was definitely happy after hearing about the news that he had been signed.
"I'm very, very happy when I find out I made the team", Brunnstrom said by phone from the home of teammate, Jonathan Ericsson.
Both Brunnstrom and Johnson were invited to attend the training camp tryouts of Detroit Red Wings before the preseason began to allow the team to decide which would be more suitable for what they were looking for.
"I am very honored to be with the Detroit Red Wings", Brunnstrom added.
Even though Johnson, who is a 35-year-old veteran centre, has played nearly 13 seasons in the NHL, his point record did not seem to impress Detroit head coach, Mike Babcock.
Brunnstrom on the other hand has played only two seasons, but potted 17 goals and 12 assists in his breakthrough rookie season playing 55 games after he was picked up by Dallas in 2008.
The following 2009-2010 season, he played 44 games and managed to put up only 11 points (2 goals, 9 assists) and was sent to play in the minor leagues.
"We like the experience he brings," general manager, Ken Holland, said. "He scored 17 goals as a rookie. We think he can be a good fit. We like his size, his age. There's no downside".
Ryan Johnson did not lose his job with Detroit due to Brunnstrom, but it later on became a decision between him and draft pick, Cory Emmerton, who would have been put on waivers, which would have the rookie being picked up by another NHL franchise.
It will certainly be interesting to see how Brunnstrom approaches the regular season using his new found opportunity with Detroit Red Wings as they kick off their first home game against Ottawa Senators on Friday, October 7.
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