Detroit Red Wings lose second player of the week as he accepts an opportunity elsewhere
Photo credit: Grand Rapids Griffins on X
The Detroit Red Wings organization lost its second player of the week, as he accepted an opportunity elsewhere.
In the span of just a couple of days, two depth pieces have left the organization to pursue different opportunities.
First, the 2020 second-round pick Cross Hanas signed a professional tryout with the Dallas Stars. And now, defenseman Brogan Rafferty has packed his bags and is leaving overseas.
Indeed, the 30-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Växjö Lakers in the Swedish Hockey League.
The team welcomed him in a press release:
"Växjö Lakers are strengthening their defense - we warmly welcome American right back Brogan Rafferty to the club. The defender, who will play in jersey number 11, has signed a two-year contract and will join the team next week."
Rafferty was never drafted. After three strong seasons at Quinnipiac University, he impressed immediately in the AHL with Utica, scoring 45 points in his rookie season.
That earned him a deal with the Vancouver Canucks in 2019, where he would eventually play three NHL games. From there, he became a steady presence in the AHL with San Diego and Coachella Valley, even helping the Firebirds reach the Calder Cup Final in 2023 with a 51-point season.
Detroit took a chance on him last summer with a two-year, two-way contract. While he never suited up for the Red Wings in regular-season action, he contributed in Grand Rapids, putting up 29 points over two seasons with the Griffins.
Here's what he had to say about the new chapter of his career:
"It feels very exciting to have signed with the Växjö Lakers. The club's determination to win and the style of play appeals to me very much.
I have also heard only good things about the city and the fans, so I think it will be the perfect place for me and my family.
I hope to contribute to making the Växjö Lakers a competitive team in the SHL."
I have also heard only good things about the city and the fans, so I think it will be the perfect place for me and my family.
I hope to contribute to making the Växjö Lakers a competitive team in the SHL."
The team GM Henrik Evertsson added:
"Brogan is a defender we have had our eye on for a few years. With his exceptionally good passing game, he fits really well into our style of play."
We wish him the best with his new team.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 15 | 224 ANSWERS Detroit Red Wings lose second player of the week as he accepts an opportunity elsewhere Do you think Brogan Rafferty's NHL career is over? | ||
| Yes | 160 | 71.4 % |
| No | 64 | 28.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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