The Detroit Red Wings have officially announced the contract for young defenseman Robbie Russo, bringing him back for another two years. The two-way deal will earn him $650K each season in the NHL. The 24-year old will remain a restricted free agent at the end of the contract.
Russo made his NHL debut last season, playing 19 games down the stretch for the Red Wings after another impressive run in the minor leagues. Unfortunately, his offensive game didn’t come with him to the NHL and he was held scoreless. He’ll look to break through and show off his puck distribution skills this season, but a spot isn’t locked up at this point.
The Red Wings brought in Trevor Daley in free agency, and still have at least six other NHL-level defensemen on the roster. With the team pushed right up against the salary cap, a player like Russo who is still waivers-exempt will likely be a casualty in camp. He’ll have to wait for an injury or a transaction to open a spot for him this season.
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