Former Detroit Red Wings forward Daniel Sprong's career reaches all-time over lack of free agency interest

This year, after a challenging season with three teams and a stint in the American Hockey League, his market appears even smaller.

The 28-year-old winger is now drawing interest from KHL teams CSKA Moscow and Avangard Omsk, according to Sport-Express' Mikhail Zislis reports, hitting a new career-low and it appears his time in the NHL is over.

Last year, Sprong signed a one-year, $975K deal with Vancouver nearly three weeks into free agency. However, limited ice time led to a trade to Seattle for future considerations.

Having his best NHL season point-production wise with the Kraken in 2022-23, the move seemed promising, but Sprong struggled to keep up with that kind of production.

After appearing in just ten games with Seattle, he was placed on waivers in January, cleared, and spent time with AHL Coachella Valley.

At the trade deadline, New Jersey acquired him for playoff depth due to several injuries in their lineup. Sprong played 11 games with the Devils, finishing the 2024-25 season with 30 games, 2 goals, and 5 assists.

His postseason was quiet, as he was scratched for 4 of 5 playoff games.

Sprong's career stats-87 goals and 79 assists in 374 games over nine seasons with seven NHL teams would suggest he may get another shot in the NHL, but that appears down the drain.

If Sprong wants a guaranteed contract sooner, the KHL offers a reliable option. With interest from two Russian clubs, he could sign a new deal in the coming weeks.

His next move will depend on whether he bets on an NHL return (likely AHL) or opts for the stability of a KHL contract.