Before most teams have made even one move today, the Detroit Red Wings have already made their second free agent signing. TSN’s Frank Seravalli reports that the team has inked defenseman Jon Merrill to a one-year contract. The deal is expected to carry a $925K AAV for the former University of Michigan standout. The Red Wings have confirmed the signing but terms have not officially been disclosed.
A long-time New Jersey Devil and an inaugural member of the Vegas Golden Knights, Merrill now returns to the state where it all began. The 28-year-old was a star for the Michigan Wolverines in nearby Ann Arbor and will be happy to return to Detroit, even on a one-year deal.
A defensive specialist who excels in the little things when it comes to playing sound defense, Merrill has never been an everyday defenseman in his NHL career but is a valuable depth piece. He will have the chance to earn a bigger role with the rebuilding Red Wings, but at the very least he will provide solid defense and experience to the young squad and could net the team a return at the trade deadline.