The Red Wings signed veteran forward Austin Watson to a one-year, two-way contract for an element of toughness that was missing, but coach Derek Lalonde indicated he’ll likely start the season with the Grand Rapids Griffins if he clears waivers on Tuesday.

Although the Detroit Red Wings ended 2023-24 on a low note, missing the playoffs for the eighth straight season, there are reasons for optimism in Hockeytown. Detroit, which opens the season at home on Thursday against Pittsburgh,

Eight years after Detroit's last playoff appearance, rising stars are starting to appear. Whether that will be enough is another question.