Detroit Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman pulled off one of the most underrated trades of the 2019-20 NHL Season, acquiring forward Robby Fabbri from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for checking forward Jacob de la Rose.
He fit in immediately with his new teammates, scoring twice in his Red Wings debut and going on to score 14 goals in 52 games. Today, he was extended by the team to a two year contract extension worth $5.9 million ($2.95 salary cap hit).
He met virtually with media members to discuss the contract extension, starting by explaining why he came back:
“I think it's the potential that group has in there,” he explained. “You can see it through parts of the season. Looking for that consistency, to keep building as a team as we move forward is important here. The Red Wings have been a great team for however many years and a great organization, so I couldn't me more excited to be here for another two years.”
When asked why it was so easy for him to fit in with the Red Wings, Fabbri discussed the welcoming culture he experienced among his new teammates as to the main reason why – as well as his motivation to prove he still could be effective in the NHL after falling out of favor in St. Louis.
“I think part of it was, from Day One walking into that dressing room, the guys were so welcoming. It's easy for me to get comfortable, and I've been waiting for that opportunity to play again and prove I'm still a good player in this league. I knew with that opportunity I'd give it all I have and not let it go to waste.”
There's no reason to believe that Fabbri won't continue his success with Detroit, especially given the new vote of confidence with a contract extension.
“I'm confident in myself,” he said. “I can only see myself improving and getting better here with this team as we come together as a group and do some good things in the future.”
Red Wings fans, are you happy with the contract extension?
