Detroit Red Wings: 6 Free Agent forwards to strongly consider signing
By Bob Heyrman
Detroit may consider a reunion with forward Sam Gagner.
You’ve guessed it. I have these three former Red Wings listed in what I feel will be Yzerman’s order of importance. Gagner will be the least impressive player on this whole list. I don’t have anything against Sam Gagner, he’s exceeded my expectations since joining the Red Wings, but I admit, he is not that exciting of an option.
Of the three former Red Wings mentioned, Gagner is actually the most versatile. Unlike the other two, Gagner can contribute to the power-play and work as a reliable penalty-killing forward.
In 42 games last season with the Red Wings, Gagner scored seven goals and added eight helpers while averaging 15:26 minutes of work per night. Gagner can play anywhere in the bottom six as a winger or center.
If Glendening finds a large payday elsewhere, Gagner is not the worst consolation prize. He’s also willing to sign a one-year deal for $1 million or less.
Over his career, Gagner has recorded 171 goals, 303 assists totaling 474 points in 886 games between Edmonton, Vancouver, Arizona, Philadelphia, Columbus, and Detroit.
Notable players to move on from; Valtteri Filppula, Darren Helm.