Freep - The Wings signed Salei, 35, to a one-year deal Monday worth $750,000 plus $350,000 in bonuses, shoring up their defense with an experienced former first-round pick who is smart, physical and can move the puck. Salei was hired to play opposite Jonathan Ericsson on the third pairing, providing a steady presence that should enable Ericsson to regain his confidence. Added to the top four of Nicklas Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Niklas Kronwall and Brad Stuart, assistant Brad McCrimmon, who is in charge of the defense, will have some solid options.
Normally I'd like to stay away from guys who missed major time coming off of serious surgery but this signing is pretty much a win/win situation for the Wings. Besides the money being right, Ruslan Salei has proven himself to be a reliable blueliner with a real mean streak, who has experience and can tighten up the back end of our defense. It will also provide Lidstrom and Rafalski with valuable rest during a long regular season. Bottom line, Ruslan is a low risk addition to the D that gives us depth to handle a possible injury and still gives us the room to make a move at the trade deadline if more defensive firepower is needed. Joeyblueskies likes.
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