Although the Detroit Red Wings appear to be set at forward for next season, they signed right wing Chris Conner to a one-year deal on Thursday. Connor's deal gives him a two-way contract, which will allow him to move freely between Detroit and Grand Rapids.
Conner, a native of Westland, Michigan, went to college at Michigan Tech and spent most of last season with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He started the season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, but he was called up to Pittsburgh after only 11 games in the AHL. He ended up playing in 60 games for the Penguins and scored seven goals during the regular season. He also appeared in seven playoff games and scored one goal.
Conner is expected to compete for a spot with the Red Wings during training camp and the preseason. Since the forward position is pretty full and Connor is on a two-way deal, chances are he will be with the Griffins unless the Red Wings are dealing with a bunch of injuries. Like with Pittsburgh, he could always start the year in Grand Rapids and later be called up to Detroit.