Detroit Red Wings invite Michigan native Austin Watson for a professional tryout
The Detroit Red Wings have signed Michigan native Austin Watson to a professional tryout contract, aiming to add grit and toughness to their lineup.
Watson, a 32-year-old forward from Ann Arbor, brings a decade of NHL experience and a reputation as a hard-hitting enforcer. Standing at 6'4" and weighing 238 pounds, Watson is known for his physical play and fighting skills. Last season, he played 33 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning, scoring two goals and two assists while amassing 93 penalty minutes.
Watson will compete for a roster spot during training camp and the preseason, providing competition for Detroit's bottom six forwards, which currently includes Andrew Copp, Tyler Motte, Michael Rasmussen, Jonatan Berggren, Christian Fischer, and Joe Veleno. The Red Wings could use a 13th forward, and Watson's experience might give him an edge. However, prospect Carter Mazur is also in contention for a spot and will likely remain in Grand Rapids unless he can secure regular playing time. Watson, originally drafted 18th overall by the Nashville Predators in 2010, brings a career total of 60 goals, 58 assists, and 705 penalty minutes over 515 games.
Source: Mlive
Red Wings sign big, tough forward to tryout contract
Source: NHL Stats
Austin Watson Stats
| POLL | ||
Should the Red Wings prioritize signing Austin Watson to add toughness to their roster? | ||
| Yes, his experience and physicality are needed | 63 | 58.3 % |
| No, focus on developing younger players | 19 | 17.6 % |
| Consider other free agents instead | 9 | 8.3 % |
| Wait until the preseason to decide | 17 | 15.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
