The Detroit Red Wings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings] are placing defenseman Erik Gustafsson on waivers with the intention of assigning him to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman. Gustafsson, 33, has appeared in just two games with Detroit [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings]this season, recording no points and posting a minus-two rating. The veteran blueliner has spent the bulk of the year in Grand Rapids, where he has been productive with 20 points in 22 games. Despite his strong offensive output in the AHL, Gustafsson has not seen consistent game action in recent weeks. He last played for Grand Rapids on January 13 against the Milwaukee Admirals before being recalled to Detroit [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings]. After the call-up, he appeared in only one game, skating on January 31 against the Colorado Avalanche. Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/] team site to stay connected to the latest news [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/latest-news], game-day [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/game-day]coverage, and player features [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/players]. Earlier this season, Gustafsson was viewed as a potential trade chip with rumors linking the former Rangers defenseman to a possible return to New York when star blueliner Adam Fox was sidelined with an injury. With Gustafsson on an expiring contract, there is concern his trade value could continue to drop, potentially leaving Detroit [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings]without a return if he departs in free agency. A former 60-point producer at the NHL level, Gustafsson still offers considerable offensive ability from the back end. Whether that contribution comes in Detroit [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings]or back in Grand Rapids remains to be seen as the Griffins have dealt with roster challenges this season due to AHL veteran limits. For now, the Red Wings [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings] appear to be utilizing Gustafsson strictly as depth on defense if he is to clear waivers. Never miss a story by adding us to your Google News [https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqBwgKMK-q0gsw7sXpAw/sections/CAQqEAgAKgcICjCvqtILMO7F6QMwnuDfCA?ceid=CA:en&oc=3] favorites! Image [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/7580a307-e387-4cc9-86ee-6eeb7a5cf1a7.jpeg] For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free [https://thehockeynews.store/products/print-subscription]. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here [http://eepurl.com/i7OC4I]. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.
