6-foot-5 forward deemed ideal free agent signing for the Detroit Red Wings

Although free agency started three weeks ago, Brett Leason, a 26-year-old winger who spent the past three seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, remains available for a team looking to add a fourth-line centerman.

However, that might not last much longer. With most players already under contract, Leason is emerging as one of the most intriguing depth options still on the market.

In 220 NHL games, the 6'5" center scored 25 goals and 54 points, along with a -2 rating, 64 hits and 44 blocked shots.

These numbers reflect a reliable, physical presence who could fill in if injuries occur. His game is straight-line, gritty, and team-first-exactly the kind of identity Detroit is continuing to build under Steve Yzerman.

The Red Wings have shown they're not afraid to bet on players with upside. A player like Leason fits that mold perfectly.

His price tag is also a major bonus-he likely won't cost more than $1 million on a short-term deal, making him an interesting target.

Though the Toronto Maple Leafs have been recently linked to Leason, the fit in Detroit arguably makes more sense. The Wings need more size and pace in their bottom six, and Leason would bring that kind of depth exactly.

If the Red Wings are still looking to round out their forward group, Brett Leason should be on their radar.

Another scenario that we could see materialize is a PTO, the option with the lowest risks for NHL organizations.

Other reports suggested that Leason received interest from a few KHL teams, including Dinamo Minsk.

Stay tuned for an update on Leason's contractual situation.