NHL free agency doesn't open until July 1, but the Detroit Red Wings appear to already have one move in place. Specifically, Swiss hockey player Damien Brunner has agreed to a deal with the Red Wings, according to several sources, including Bill Roose, who writes for the Red Wings' official site.
The reason Brunner has merely agreed to sign with the Red Wings is because he can't officially ink a deal before July 1. For now, it's only an agreement, and Brunner has to utilize the out clause in his contract with a Swiss team, according to Helene St. James. If everything goes according to plan, he will sign a one-year, two-way deal with the Red Wings on or after July 1.
Here's more on Brunner:
Brunner, 26, is small European, but he can skate like the wind and has a wicked shot. Very skilled. Coveted by many NHL teams
— Helene St. James (@freepwings) June 22, 2012
According to St. James, Brunner drew interest from not only the Red Wings, but also the Penguins, Lightning, Capitals, Canadiens and Flyers. Ken Holland told St. James that Brunner is "very talented," and it looks like Brunner could compete with guys like Gustav Nyquist and Tomas Tatar for a spot in the Red Wings' lineup next season.
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