On the eve of NHL free agency, the Detroit Red Wings have agreed to terms with defenseman Jonathan Ericsson, according to TSN's Bob McKenzie. Ericsson's deal is "believed to be" worth $9.75 million over three years, which seems like a lot given how Ericsson played last season. I guess this is the offseason of overpaying players across the league, though.
In any case, the Red Wings can now focus on getting deals done with forwards Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller. Ken Holland said on Thursday that progress has been made with Eaves' agent, indicating that a deal is likely before free agency starts at noon (Eastern Time) on Friday. Things aren't looking as good with Miller, though.
The Red Wings also are trying to re-sign forward Drew Miller, but are not close.
"Just had a philosophical conversation (with his agent),'' Holland said. "I made an offer. Can't say we're making a lot of progress.''
If Detroit is unable to re-sign Miller and Jaromir Jagr ends up going elsewhere, it's possible this could be the opening for Kris Draper to return to the Red Wings for one more season.