Red Wings Sign Watson to One-Year, Two-Way Contract

Michigan native tough guy Austin Watson has agreed to a one-year, two-way contract with the Detroit Red Wings.

Right wing Watson came to the Red Wings’ training camp on Professional Tryout Offer (PTO) and earned a place in the organization. He gained everyone’s attention by recording 12 hits in a preseason 2-1 road win against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

“We’re excited to have him in our organization,” Detroit coach Derek Lalonde said. “I think with all of our moves here, it’s kind of fluid. I think it’s today’s NHL with where you are in the cap. We’re trying to maximize your roster, so it might look clean today as in who’s here and who’s not. It’s something we’re working through.  We’re going to start with 12 forwards in Detroit, so that might have him spending some time in Grand Rapids to start.”

One of the goals for the Red Wings after last season was to bigger and tougher. The Red Wings have some difficulty dealing with the bigger teams. The 6-foot-4, 238-pound Watson always plays a physical game, and is known for protecting his teammates. When he plays, he likely will play on the fourth line with Joe Veleno.

The #LGRW signed 32 y/o UFA F Austin Watson to 1 year deal

NHL 775K
Minors 200K
Guaranteed 275K

Was on PTO with Detroit

Rep'd by Murray Koontz @WD_sportsagency https://t.co/VxmzUNcURk

— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) October 7, 2024

He played 33 games last season for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Watson will likely be a part-time player for the Red Wings, playing against the tougher teams. The key for Watson will be performing well enough on 5-on-5 shifts to earn minutes.

Watson’s NHL salary is $775,000 and he earns $200,000 in the AHL. He is guaranteed a minium of $275,000. According to Spotrac.com, Watson has earned almost $10 million during his NHL career. He has played 515 NHL games during his career.