Detroit Red Wings Complete Their Roster by Locking in Givani Smith

Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman finished getting his 2021-22 roster in order by persuading Givani Smith to agree to a two-year contract.  The club didn’t provide financial details

Smith, 23, is expected to get his chance to play regularly this season because he’s out of options. If the Red Wings try to send him back to the American Hockey League, he likely would be claimed. Scouts like his blend of toughness and skill.

The Red Wings hope he will be ready to claim a bottom six forward role this season. Smith registered nine goals, 15 points and 54 penalty minutes in 25 games for the Grand Rapids Griffins last season. Smith could give the Red Wings a consistent, tough, physical presence.

If you count prize rookie defenseman Moritz Seider and Smith, the Red Wings have 23 projected roster players. The Red Wings are hoping one or more of the top forward prospects (Lucas Raymond, Jonatan Berggren and Joe Veleno) will make the team, but it’s possible none of them will be considered ready.