Todd McLellan addresses multiple injuries to the Detroit media ahead of facing San Jose Sharks on Friday

This morning, the Detroit Red Wings organization announced that they called up the veteran defenseman Erik Gustafsson from the Grand Rapids Griffins in the AHL ahead of Friday night's game against the San Jose Sharks.

A few hours later, after practice, Todd McLellan held a press conference, and revealed a key injury update, which explains the roster move.

McLellan confirmed they have to deal with injuries at the blue lines, including Ben Chiarot, who left the practice for some maintenance.

He added that we should see the same defensemen who played the last game to be back on the ice tomorrow against the Sharks:

Chiarot's situation will be followed closely, and an official update will come before the game, but as of now, Gustafsson isn't set to be included in the lineup.

The 33-year-old defenseman took part in only one game with the Red Wings this season, on November 26 against the Nashville Predators.

It'll be interesting to see if Yzerman decides to showcase him to put him on the trade bloc or keeps him around as seventh defenseman.

Also, his offensive skills could also help bring momentum to the team if needed.

Although Yzerman will surely be looking to acquire another defenseman on the market before the deadline, if prices are too high or deals don't materialize for other reasons, Gustafsson could be the wild card brought up to the lineup by Yzerman to add momentum.

In 22 games this season with Grand Rapids, the defenseman tallied 20 points. That offensive edge could be a welcomed asset down the stretch.

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