Red Wings Sign Austin Watson to One-Year, Two-Way Contract Extension
The Detroit Red Wings have announced the signing of forward Austin Watson to a one-year, two-way contract extension. The move comes as part of the team’s ongoing efforts to add depth to their roster, especially in terms of physicality and leadership in the bottom six. Watson, known for his grit and toughness, will remain with the Red Wings organization for the upcoming season, continuing to provide valuable experience and leadership to the team’s younger players.
Watson, 31, originally joined the Red Wings in the 2022-2023 season, primarily playing in a depth role. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation as a physical player, noted for his ability to protect teammates and contribute to the penalty kill. His playing style is characterized by a willingness to throw his body around, provide energy, and serve as a presence on the ice that can wear down opponents. His signing to a two-way contract reflects Detroit’s plan to balance his contributions in both the NHL and AHL, depending on team needs.
Over his career, Watson has played in over 400 NHL games, amassing 51 goals, 55 assists, and 616 penalty minutes. He has spent the majority of his career with the Nashville Predators and Ottawa Senators, where he played a key role as a physical presence on the ice. While not a top-line scorer, Watson’s contributions go beyond the stat sheet. His leadership qualities, especially his ability to mentor younger players, have been highly regarded by coaches and teammates alike.
The two-way contract ensures that Watson will have the opportunity to earn an NHL spot during training camp, but it also gives the Red Wings flexibility to move him between their NHL and AHL rosters. If he is unable to secure a permanent role in Detroit, he will likely provide leadership and experience to the Grand Rapids Griffins, the Red Wings’ AHL affiliate. This scenario benefits both Watson, who will have the opportunity to continue playing professional hockey at a high level, and the Red Wings, who can develop their prospects in a competitive environment while having Watson as a reliable veteran presence.
This extension demonstrates the Red Wings’ focus on maintaining a balanced roster, one that includes a mixture of experienced players who can contribute in various roles, particularly in terms of physicality and leadership. As the Red Wings look to continue their rebuild and push for a playoff spot in the coming seasons, Watson’s extension could be an important piece in helping the team reach their goals.
