Smith sticks, Bruno demoted
It was an interesting morning for the Detroit Red Wings. First, it was announced that Ian White would make his return to the lineup tomorrow against the Calgary Flames — which is excellent news.
However, that began the questions about Brendan Smith’s fate. He’s played well, increasingly so, in his three game audition with the big club. He was told that he’d be sent back to Grand Rapids after practice (a practice in which all 24 healthy players took part). He packed up his bags and was on his way out the door when Mike Babcock told him to unpack, he’s going to stick around a while.
You’re only allowed to carry 23 players, and we had one too many. So, Fabian Brunnstrom was sent down. He didn’t have to clear waivers, since he was waived on October 29th, and he won’t have to clear again for thirty days.
So, for now, it looks like Brendan Smith has made the team. It may be that someone is banged up on defense and they’re being cautious, but no one was placed on short-term injured reserve. The team will carry 8 defensemen (two extra) and only 13 forwards (one extra).
TRANSACTIONS, NOVEMBER 22ND
Ian White :: activated from short-term injured reserve
Fabian Brunnstrom :: assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins
Brendan Smith :: remains with the Detroit Red Wings
Like always, keep updated to the minute using The Chart. The Transactions tab is updated daily, as is the Assignments tab.
“Banged up defenseman” would possibly explain why Kindl has been so quiet and has been getting fewer minutes lately. I was just thinking it was him going through NHL growing pains again, but if something’s bugging him, then I can blame it on that instead and continue to think highly of the way he’s performed this season.
Kindl banged up his shoulder fighting Jamie Benn a few games back
This is great news about Smith. I can tell Babcock really likes him. Babs said, “He’s an NHL player,” after his first appearance, even before he had any points. Also great news that Ian White returns so soon!
It will be really interesting to see the line up tomorrow night.