Detroit Red Wings sign Justin Abdelkader
The Detroit Red Wings have announced that they have signed forward Justin Abdelkader to a two-year deal. Abdelkader was a restricted free agent after playing his first full season with the club last year.
Abdelkader was drafted 42nd overall by the Red Wings in the second round of the 2005 National Hockey League (NHL) entry draft. After being drafted, Abdelkader completed three years at Michigan State University before joining the Red Wings American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins. He spent one full season with the Griffins and posted an impressive 24 goals and 52 points in 76 games.
The addition of Mike Modano, and the return of Jiri Hudler to the NHL after a full season in Russia, is likely to keep Abdelkader from obtaining any third line duty. Therefore, it is expected that the 23 year-old will once again resume his role on Detroit’s fourth line.
Abdelkader brings some much needed physicality to the Detroit line-up. He finished third on the team in hits last season with 152, and is expected to add to that number in 2010-11. The Michigan native fills out what is once again an impressive forward core for the Red and White, and coach Mike Babcock will be hoping Abdelkader will continue to develop, being able to slot into the line-up on a nightly basis.
With a third line expected to contain veterans Modano, Kris Draper, and perhaps Daniel Clearly, Detroit will soon be looking for the next generation of third line forwards. General Manager Ken Holland is certainly hoping that Abdelkader, and his sophomore counterpart Darren Helm, will be able to fill that void.
Abdelkader should get the benefit of the doubt at this year’s camp. Nevertheless, he will have to battle all season to remain a staple in a strong line-up with an impressive farm system.
Last season with the Red Wings, Abdelkader managed three goals and three assists for six points in just 50 games.
Tags: