Rasmussen Ready to Play; Christian Fischer Waived

Michael Rasmussen (upper body injury) has been cleared to return the Detroit Red Wings’ lineup Thursday when they play the Utah Hockey Club

The 6-foot-6 forward missed four games since being injured by a blow to the head by Trevor Zegras. The Red Wings were 1-3 in those games. The NHL suspended Zegras for three games for the late hit.

Zegras makes no attempt to drop his shoulder, in fact the kid is barely 6 foot tall and his shoulder is ABOVE the head of the 6’6” Rasmussen. pic.twitter.com/uIDizS5zV2

— 🔴🪽🐙 (@RedwingsEdits) February 24, 2025

“It’s hard watching, but just try to get back to normal and be ready when I’m feeling better,” Rasmussen said.

The Red Wings placed Christian Fischer on waivers Wednesday.  Rasmussen skated at center on a line with Joe Veleno and Tyler Motte in practice.

With center Andrew Copp already gone for the season, Rasmussen absence was felt.

“Not singling out the players down the middle but we haven’t been as strong down the middle lately and hopefully he can help us solidify that,” Detroit coach Todd McLellan said.

Neither Copp or Rasmussen are impact performers, but they contribute with quality minutes. Their importance is noted when they are missing.

“That’s part of it but it’s not an excuse,” McLellan said. “I don’t think you’ve heard anyone march in and say, ‘Hey, we’re missing these guys.’ I give the group credit for understanding they’re missing good players but also not whining or (complaining) or using it as an excuse.”

Rasmussen is also one of the team’s better forecheckers, and he’s a leader by virtue of teammates respecting how he plays.

“I think Ras is a good game management guy,” coach Todd McLellan said. “He manages the game well, he understands who he is and he plays within his skin. He’s big, he’s got a reach. Body position is important and he’s responsible at both ends. He has some cache in the locker room as well.”