Daniel Alfredsson’s future in the National Hockey League remains uncertain, but the veteran Swedish forward continues to train hard for another potential season.
“He’s training hard,” said Detroit Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland. “He’s training to play.”
Alfredsson, 41, appeared in 68 games for the Red Wings last season, tallying 18 goals with 31 assists. It was his first with another NHL team after spending 17 seasons with the Ottawa Senators, who drafted him 133 overall in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft.
Despite Alfredsson resuming his offseason training, he has not officially committed to a return to the NHL.
“When I last talked to him, he said he felt good; he wanted to feel great,” said Holland.
While Holland recently said he will touch base with Alfredsson again in 10-12 days, Alfredsson might opt to come to the Red Wings’ training camp on a tryout basis to see how he holds up mentally and physically before making a final decision on whether to return or retire.
Alfredsson missed time last season due to back problems.
“He would love to play another year. He wants to play for us,” said Holland. “He only wants to play if he feels he can contribute. The best test for him is to skate a couple weeks prior to training camp.”
The Red Wings are expected to begin training camp on Friday, September 19 in Traverse City, Mich.
