Successful acquisition by Steve Yzerman and the Red Wings: It's much more important than the stats

Since Steve Yzerman signed James van Riemsdyk to a one-year contract during the offseason, his impact on the team can be hard to see from the outside.

Indeed, in 16 games, the 36-year-old veteran scored only two points, including one goal, with a -5 rating.

However, a new report shed light on what van Riemsdyk truly brings to the team.

Although van Riemsdyk missed the whole training camp and the preseason to attend to a family matter, he has been better than it seems.

His production may not be there, but that's not all that he brings to the table.

The veteran is currently playing on the fourth line, in a diminished role, averaging only 11:47 of ice time so far this season.

Despite limited opportunities on the ice, van Riemsdyk is currently fourth on the team for the Corsi percentage at even strength, with a 57.0, which is even more impressive considering his 52.3 offensive zone starting percentage.

He has also been a leader and a role model with the young Wings team, filling the role that the organization asked him to play.

Set to enter free agency at the end of the season, it'll be interesting to see what will happen to him next.

At 36 years old and obviously not having the same speed he used to have on the ice, fans are eager to see if he retires from the NHL after the season or signs another one-year contract, as most players do at that stage of their careers.