Nick Jensen
It’s Nick’s job to lose! Nick Jensen played as the sixth defenseman last season for the Detroit Red Wings. Jensen played 16:15 minutes per game last season for the Wings and failed to find the back of the net in 81 games played. Jensen was able to record 15 assists, also seemed to play a “crisper” game as the season went on. Jensen was trusted upon more and more even though his offensive ability was lagging.
The Detroit Red Wings drafted Nick Jensen 150th overall in 2009 with a 5th round selection. Jensen is entering the final year of his team-friendly contract which has a cap hit of 812k according to capfriendly.com.
Nick Jensen at 28 years of age, may find himself as the odd man out for this up and coming season. Jensen will have a hefty battle with Filip Hronek in particular for the 6th spot on the Detroit Red Wings backend.
Nick Jensen who played his first full season in the NHL last year could fend off the younger players breathing down his neck for a roster spot, but Jensen himself will need to perform at a higher level and prove he can be a well rounded valuable piece moving forward.
Nick Jensen would merely be Detroit’s 7th D-man if he indeed does lose out to a younger player, Detroit, unfortunately, has shown no interest in allowing Jonathan Ericsson to miss out on a roster spot. Jensen may find himself in trade talks around the NHL trade deadline this winter. Jensen would fetch a late round draft pick for a team hampered by injuries or possibly looking for a sixth defenseman. Jensen’s contract makes him easily movable if necessary.
The Detroit Red Wings cannot dress a young defenseman, and have them sit in the press box. If one of the mentioned players would happen to unseat Jensen, Nick still holds value at the NHL level to practice with the NHL group and remain ready if and when injuries occur.