Back in 2008, the Detroit Red Wings were one of a few teams trying to sign Swedish forward Fabian Brunnstrom. The undrafted free agent caught the attention of NHL teams after a great 2007-08 season in the Swedish Elite League, and he decided he wanted play North American hockey.
Considering how much success Swedish players have had in Detroit, the Red Wings seemed like a natural fit for Brunnstrom. Things didn't work out, however, and Brunnstrom ended up signing a two-year deal with the Dallas Stars.
Brunnstrom's career in Dallas looked promising early on with him recording a hat trick in his NHL debut and having a pretty strong rookie season. His sophomore campaign in the NHL didn't go nearly as well, however, and he eventually ended up in the AHL. The Stars traded him to Toronto last January, but he never appeared in a game for the Maple Leafs and remained in the AHL.
Now looking for a job after a rough last couple of seasons, Brunnstrom has signed a tryout contract with the Red Wings. His chances of making the NHL roster are very slim considering all spots are accounted for right now, but Brunnstrom decided that the Red Wings would give him the best opportunity to revive his career.
"I think he just said, 'You know what, if I'm going to have a chance to be a pro maybe I can do it in Detroit.' We said, 'You're welcome to come and try out,' and he accepted."
Jim Nill, the Red Wings assistant general manager, said that he hasn't talked to Brunnstrom about the possibility of playing in Grand Rapids. Brunnstrom is apparently focused on trying to make the Red Wings, but his best hope would really be to start in Grand Rapids and go to Detroit after an injury happens.