Michael Whitaker
Following the signing of veteran defenseman Trevor Daley, the Detroit Red Wings have made another roster move, inking defenseman, and Holland, Michigan native Luke Witkowski to a one-year deal.
In addition to Trevor Daley, I'm told defenseman Luke Witkowski will sign with Detroit on a one-year deal at $750,000.
— Ken Campbell (@Ken_Campbell27) July 1, 2017
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Red Wings fans will remember Witkowski as the player who ended forward Anthony Mantha’s season during a March 30 fight. Mantha suffered a fractured finger during the bout. His year finished with 36 points.
In addition to hailing from Holland, Witkowski has additional ties to Michigan, having played four years at Western Michigan University, including 2010-11 for current Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill.
He was drafted in the 6th round (160th overall) of the 2008 NHL Draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. He’s has spent part of the last three seasons with the Tampa Bay, appearing in 34 games last season. In 54 career NHL games, Witkowski has scored no goals while putting up four assists and 58 penalty minutes. He has a career plus/minus rating of -1.
At 6’2 and 216 lbs, Witkowski has the frame and toughness the team is looking for. Whether or not he’ll see regular playing time with the Red Wings or mostly with Grand Rapids remains to be seen.
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