The Detroit Red Wings placed forward Fabian Brunnstrom on waivers Saturday after logging 8:09 in a 7-1 loss at Washington on October, 22.
According to Ansar Khan of Mlive.com, the move clears the way for the Wings to recall a forward from Grand Rapids such as Gustav Nyquist or Chris Conner.
Brunnstrom has until noon on Monday to clear waivers. If he does he will be assigned to Grand Rapids of the AHL.
“He needs to play,” general manager Ken Holland said. “He’s in the process of establishing himself as an NHL player. He played well enough in training camp to earn a contract, but he hasn’t been able to play because we haven’t had any injuries (except for Jan Mursak’s broken ankle, which created the roster spot for Brunnstrom).”
Red Wings general manager Ken Holland did mention that the waiver move with Brunnstrom isn’t a prelude to a trade.
Brunnstrom who was signed to a two-way contract on October 3rd after having a strong training camp and preseason. Wings head coach Mike Babcock often referred to Brunnstrom as a top six forward.
“We got him because things didn’t work out somewhere else,” Holland said. “It’s not like he’s been in the NHL for 10 years. He’s trying to establish himself.
“We’re fully aware of the risk. It’s great to be in the NHL, but he needs to play.”
So far in Grand Rapids, Gustav Nyquist has seven points (three goals, four assists) in eight games while Conner leads the Griffins with 4 goals and 10 points.
Nyquist is the Wings’ top forward prospect and considered by some to be pro ready.
Ref: Mlive.com, Detroit News (image)