The Daily: Sprong Seeks Long Canucks Stay; KHL Signs Ex-Griffin

When former Red Wings player Daniel Sprong finally signed with the Vancouver Canucks just over a week ago, he admitted he was surprised, or at least disappointed, that no team was willing to give him the kind of deal he wanted.

He signed a one-year deal for $975,000. That was less than half of what he earned last season when he scored 18 goals for the Red Wings. He is now with his sixth team since being drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2015. He previously has played for the Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, Washington Capitals, Seattle Kraken and Red Wings

“It’s kind of a wake-up call, but at the same time, I think it’s also good motivation and kind of put some fuel to the fire,” he said.

In Vancouver, he is being reunited with President of Hockey Operations Jim Rutherford and GM Patrik Allvin. They drafted the Netherlands native when they were in Pittsburgh.

Sprong said he wants to make the changes necessary to get teams to stay with him for the long term. That means he needs to become an improved defensive players. NHL coaches haven’t trusted that side of his game.

“I’m hoping Vancouver’s not just one year,” Sprong said. “I can see myself being there long term and that’s really what excited me.”

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Vladimir Tarasenko and Erik Gustafsson were both Red Wings fans growing up. Bob Duff has the details.

Michigan has sent 38 players to the NHL through the years, including Detroit’s Alex DeBrincat and Dylan Larkin.

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Red Wings Offseason

Chicago: Nate Brown’s Blackhawks prospect rankings make it clear we need to keep an eye on Nick Lardis. Chicago Blackhawks.