When DeKeyser first signed with the Detroit Red Wings on March 29, 2013, other options were available. A number of NHL teams were displaying a keen interest in locking up the undrafted defenseman as he prepared to leave college.
The Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators, Calgary Flames and Toronto Maple Leafs were all reportedly pitching serious offers, but the ties of home, of long-standing allegiance, of that famous jersey, proved too strong.
When DeKeyser first signed with the Detroit Red Wings on March 29, 2013, other options were available. A number of NHL teams were displaying a keen interest in locking up the undrafted defenseman as he prepared to leave college.
The Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators, Calgary Flames and Toronto Maple Leafs were all reportedly pitching serious offers, but the ties of home, of long-standing allegiance, of that famous jersey, proved too strong.
DeKeyser was born in Macomb Township, a northern suburb of Detroit, and had grown up a Red Wings fan. He stayed at home for college, playing three seasons at Western Michigan University, where he was tutored by former Los Angeles Kings coach Andy Murray, who helped the defenseman elevate his game.
In his first college season, DeKeyser was named to the CCHA All-Rookie Team. He also finished second on the team in rating (plus-12) and first in blocked shots (54). As a sophomore he was selected to the second CCHA All-Star Team, was a Second Team All-American and was named best defensive defenseman in the conference.
Leaving college to turn pro, DeKeyser played in 11 games for Detroit in 2012-13, making his NHL debut on April 5, 2013, against the Colorado Avalanche. After the Red Wings were eliminated in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, DeKeyser joined Grand Rapids of the American Hockey League for the postseason push that culminated in a Calder Cup championship.
In his first full NHL season (2013-14) DeKeyser played 65 games and finished with 23 points and a plus-10 rating. The next season he improved to 31 points and plus-11.
DeKeyser played for the United States at the 2014 World Championship and had two assists in eight games. The Americans finished sixth, but the tournament marked his first significant international experience.
A reflection of the organization's growing faith in DeKeyser came on July 26, 2016, when he was signed to a six-year contract extension.
NOTES & TRANSACTIONS
- CCHA All-Rookie Team (2011)
- CCHA Second All-Star Team (2012)
- CCHA First All-Star Team (2013)
- NCAA West Second All-American Team (2012, 2013)
- Signed as a free agent by Detroit, March 29, 2013.
