The Detroit Red Wings signed free agent Jussi Jokinen to a professional try-out contract. The Finnish winger heads to training camp looking to earn a spot on the team.
Jussi Jokinen has signed a PTO with Detroit Red Wings. pic.twitter.com/qEcRr5zwP9
— Sami Hoffrén (@shoffren) September 10, 2018
Jussi Jokinen still striving to contribute
The 2017-2018 NHL season has already been tumultuous for the 35-year-old Jokinen as he played with four teams. Jussi Jokinen’s “suitcase season” started with the Edmonton Oilers, followed by a trade to the Los Angeles Kings which resulted in the NHL veteran being waived and claimed by the Columbus Blue Jackets. Finally, at the trade deadline, he was moved to Vancouver Canucks. Jokinen played in a combined 60 games this season, registering one goal and 17 points. Now the NHL veteran joins the Red Wings and hopefully, the father of two can gain some stability in his family life.
Jussi Jokinen offers veteran support
Over his 13-year NHL career, Jussi Jokinen has played for the nine different National Hockey league teams. He has put up 191 goals and 372 assists for 563 career points in 951 career games. He was originally drafted in the sixth round, 192 overall of the 2001 NHL entry draft by the Dallas Stars.
Last season was the first time Jussi Jokinen fell short of 20 points in his NHL career. He had 17 points while adding 12 minutes in penalties. Jokinen has been a versatile forward that can play all three positions and hopes to offer help with special team assignments. Jussi Jokinen has also played in 54 playoff games in the NHL registering 32 points.
What This Means for the Future
The Red Wings saw potential with Jokinen and is hoping to tap into the experience that comes with 13 seasons in the league. Jussi provides a veteran touch for teams with young, developing players. Now he just needs to make the roster.
Main Photo:
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA – APRIL 08: VANCOUVER, BC – MARCH 31: Vancouver Canucks Left Wing Jussi Jokinen (36) skates against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period in an NHL hockey game on March 31, 2018, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, BC. Canucks won 5-4 in Overtime. (Photo by Bob Frid/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
