Detroit Red Wings have officially fortified their goaltending lineup by signing veteran netminder Michael Hutchinson to a one-year, two-way contract for the remainder of the 2023-24 season. The announcement signals a strategic move by the team to deepen their roster with experienced talent as they navigate through the season.
Hutchinson, at 33 years of age, brings a wealth of experience to the Red Wings. His tenure with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins this season has been marked by solid performance, boasting a 5-7-1 record with a 2.98 goals-against average, an 0.895 save percentage, and securing one shutout in 13 games. His 6-foot-3, 201-pound frame adds a significant presence between the pipes.
Prior to this contract, Hutchinson had a brief stint with the Red Wings in the preseason on a professional tryout. His professional journey in the previous year included appearances with the AHL’s Henderson Silver Knights and 16 games with the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets, reflecting his ability to contribute at the highest levels of the sport.
A third-round selection by the Boston Bruins in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Hutchinson has accrued a record of 57-61-18 in 153 NHL games across several teams, including the Winnipeg Jets, Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, and Blue Jackets since the 2013-14 season. His AHL record is equally impressive, with 111 wins and 16 shutouts, highlighting his reliability and consistency as a goaltender.
The Ontario native has a decorated past from his time in the Ontario Hockey League with the Barrie Colts and London Knights, and his professional journey has been complemented by international experience, representing Team Canada at the 2022 Spengler Cup.
With Hutchinson’s signing, the Detroit Red Wings are clearly looking to leverage his extensive experience and skills to strengthen their defense, providing depth and stability to the goaltending department as they continue to push forward in the competitive landscape of the NHL.
