Detroit Red Wings Release Bobby Ryan From Tryout Contract

The Detroit Red Wings released Bobby Ryan from his tryout contract, fueling more speculation that Swedish rookie  Lucas Raymond will make the squad.

“We just made that decision that it was the best thing for us right now,” Red Wings Coach Jeff Blashill said. “I wish Bobby tons of luck moving forward. He’s a great, great person, real good player.”

With Jakub Vrana going on the Long-term Injured Reserve, the Red Wings have 12 veteran forwards. The Red Wings’ original plan is to keep 13 forwards, eight defensemen and two goalies. At practice Tuesday, Raymond skated on the top line with Dylan Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi.

The Red Wings have until 5 p.m. today to finalize their roster. Injuries could impact the final decisions.

Ryan, 34, scored seven goals and had 14 points in 33 games last season for the Red Wings. But the Red Wings gave him a PTO (professional tryout contract) because he was popular in the room and did a good job working with younger players.

“At times it was portrayed as two guys (Raymond and Ryan) fighting for one job and that’s not necessarily the case,” Raymond said. “But certainly Lucas’ game and how other guys plays factored into it for sure. Lucas had a real good first part of camp. The last three games he was fine. His B and C game is pretty good because I don’t think he hurts you defensively, but he didn’t create a lot. But there’s a lot of factors that go into that, But his play, did that have a factor? Sure. Did other guys’ play have a factor. Yes. It definitely wasn’t two guys.”

Ryan Could Sign With Another Team

Blashill said he hopes Ryan did enough in training camp to get a contract from another NHL team. The Red Wings believe Bobby Ryan can still score.

“I hope he did (do enough to catch on elsewhere) because I think he’s a really good person and a good hockey player,” Blashill said. “I like when you get forced into some tough decisions.”

Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin said he thought Ryan “played great” throughout the preseason. Ryan had two goals and four points in six preseason games.

“He’s a great pro,” Larkin said. “He came in on late notice with a PTO and played great. I wish Bobby all the best. He’s been a great teammate, a great friend. He’s got a great story with how he’s battled adversity and I have a lot of respect for him.”