Forward Brad Richards has decided where he’ll take his talents to the Detroit Red Wings. Current details have it a one year deal for $3M with a potential $1M bonus.
Can confirm Brad Richards has officially signed with the Detroit Red Wings. Terms to follow.
— Ken Campbell (@THNKenCampbell) July 1, 2015
1 yr for Richards to Det. $3 mil with bonus to $4 mil
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) July 1, 2015
Taking a chance with a $2 million deal, Richards came in and performed behind an offensive juggernaut in a depth role, creating a surplus of offense and major problems to opponents.
Already a Stanley Cup Champion and Conn Smythe winner as part of the 2004 Tampa Bay Lightning, Richards landed in Chicago for his 14th year in the NHL. After spending time with the Lightning, Dallas Stars and New York Rangers, Richards played on a team in Chicago with tons of depth in front of him, that he didn’t even need to play much. In fact, his average ice-time of 14:53 was the lowest of his career, and two minutes lower than his rookie season. Still, Richards had chemistry when Patrick Kane was on his wing and following their 2015 Stanley Cup win, Kane expressed his interest in Richards sticking around.
Richards’ 0.49 was his career-low point-per-game total, by a fair margin. This can be attributed to his lack of playing time and a low shooting percentage (6.0%). While his Fenwick% has steadily declined over the last three seasons, hitting 52.8% last season, his Corsi% has remained stagnant at the 54% mark, changing only by the decimals over the last three seasons. His defensive zone deployment was 52.8%, a total point higher from last season, which indicates Richards can be used in a depth role and get the puck up the ice in a hurry. It will have to be on another cheap deal if Richards hopes to remain in the league. At 35, he isn’t producing on an elite level but his defensive game is good enough to get him by.
