Abdelkader, 23, was Detroit’s second round selection – 42nd overall – in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. He appeared in 50 games for the Red Wings in 2009-10, collecting three goals and three assists, while finishing third on the team in hits (152). The Muskegon, Michigan, native registered his first career regular-season point (Oct. 15), goal (Oct. 17) and first career two-goal game (Nov. 11) last season.

He appeared in 11 games for the Red Wings during the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs, adding a goal and an assist and tied for the NHL leading penalty minutes (36). Abdelkader also played in 33 games for the Grand Rapids Griffins last season, notching 11 goals and 13 assists.

A former star at Michigan State, Abdelkader helped the Spartans capture the 2007 NCAA championship, scoring the game-winning goal with just 18.9 seconds left in the title against Boston College. He was named the Frozen Four Most Outstanding Player.