The Detroit Red Wings have signed veteran forward Austin Watson to a player tryout (PTO) just before the start of training camp. Watson brings a decade of NHL experience, having played for the Nashville Predators, Ottawa Senators, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
Drafted 18th overall by the Predators in the 2010 NHL Draft, Watson is a 6-foot-4, 205-pound left-winger who plays on his off-wing. In the previous season with the Lightning, he recorded two goals, two assists, and 93 penalty minutes over 33 games.
Over his career, Watson has accumulated 60 goals, 58 assists, and 118 points, along with 705 penalty minutes. In playoff action, he has scored 10 goals, nine assists, and 19 points in 45 games, with 48 penalty minutes.
Although some might question the significance of this signing, Watson’s addition has merit. At 32 years old, he brings size, toughness (as evidenced by his 93 penalty minutes last season), and experience as a productive fourth-line player and penalty killer. Additionally, he hails from Ann Arbor, Michigan, adding a local connection to the Red Wings.
Austin Watson is going to the Detroit Red Wings on a PTO
While the Red Wings have yet to officially release their 2024 training camp roster, it’s likely that more players will be signed to player tryouts (PTOs). This provides unsigned players an opportunity to earn a roster spot and demonstrate their abilities. Although there may be a few forward positions open for Detroit, Watson’s physical style could fill a gap that was evident last season.
Watson has a chance to secure a spot based on his playing style, but with limited roster spots available, he will need to outperform other hungry young players who are vying for those positions.
Watson could be a valuable addition to the Red Wings, bringing a much-needed physical presence and potentially contributing to a penalty kill unit that struggled last season. Throughout his NHL career, Watson has primarily played in the bottom six, known for his physicality and ability to protect teammates, while also providing offensive support. His experience and skills on the penalty kill could be beneficial for Detroit.
The Red Wings need a player who can add a physical edge to their lineup, particularly someone who excels in protecting teammates, battling along the boards, and in front of the net—attributes that Watson excels in and that could be crucial during the playoffs.
