One of the stable of homegrown Michigan-born and trained players, Glendening has carved out a niche heavy on diligence and detail.

Never projected to be a big scorer, the Detroit Red Wings value his speed, determination, penalty-killing smarts, appetite for contact and a keen ability inside the faceoff circle.

Born in Grand Rapids, Glendening played four seasons at the University of Michigan. By his sophomore season, Glendening's leadership skills had been instrumental in being named an alternate captain. The following season he was elevated to co-captain.

During his junior season, Michigan reached the Frozen Four, but lost to Minnesota-Duluth 3-2 in overtime in the final.

Undrafted after leaving Michigan, Glendening signed a one-year contract with Grand Rapids of the American Hockey League, Detroit's top minor-league affiliate, for the 2012-13 season.

Splitting time between Toledo of the East Coast Hockey League and Grand Rapids in his first pro season, Glendening settled in at Grand Rapids as it marched to its first Calder Cup title. In 24 playoff games, he contributed six goals, 16 points and any number of key face-off wins.

Impressed with his performance, the Red Wings signed Glendening to a one-year contract. Beginning 2013-14 with Grand Rapids, the center would see action in 56 games for Detroit, registering his first NHL goal - the only one he'd score - on April 5, 2014, against the Montreal Canadiens.

The following two seasons Glendening proved to be dependable and durable, scoring 18 points in 82 games in 2014-15, and 21 points in 81 games in 2015-16 while averaging nearly 15 minutes of ice time a game.

On July 14, 2016, the Red Wings signed Glendening to a four-year contract extension.