"Nick is a reliable modern-day defenseman who we feel can defend well and log valuable minutes for our club," said MacLellan. "At 28 years of age, we feel he is just entering his prime."
Jensen, 28, a native of Rogers, Minn., recorded 15 points (2g, 13a) in 60 games with the Red Wings this season, which is tied for his highest point total of his career, set last season (15a). The 6'0", 194-pound defenseman's 50.43 shot attempt percentage (947 shot attempts for, 931 against) led Detroit defensemen at five-on-five among players with at least 40 games played. Additionally, Jensen's 2:46 minutes per game on the penalty kill are the most on the Red Wings and his 165:53 total penalty kill minutes rank 21st in the NHL. Additionally, Jensen was on the ice for 42 goals at five-on-five, the second most on the Red Wings this season.
In 190 career games with Detroit, Jensen has collected 43 points (6g, 37a). Jensen was selected with the Red Wings' fifth round pick (149th overall) in the 2009 NHL Draft.
Prior to the NHL, Jensen appeared in 222 games with the Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL), recording 61 points (10g, 51a). Additionally, Jensen was a three-year player at St. Cloud State University from 2010 to 2013. In his junior year at the university, Jensen was named to the NCAA (West) First All-American Team and was named the NCAA (WCHA) Defensive Player of the Year.
