Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Red Wings are set to face the Toronto Maple Leafs at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday night, marking the beginning of a busy stretch with three preseason games in as many days. Following this matchup, they will host the Ottawa Senators on Friday and conclude their eight-game exhibition series against the Maple Leafs in Toronto on Saturday.

The team returns home after a victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins, where goalie Ville Husso made 43 saves, leading to a 2-1 win at PPG Paints Arena. "We talk about [goaltending battle] being a blank slate, and you want to execute and perform," said Detroit head coach Derek Lalonde. "[On Tuesday], Ville Husso played at an extremely high level."

Detroit has reduced its Training Camp roster to 55 players. Among those aiming for a spot is Austin Watson, a forward on a professional tryout contract. Watson previously secured a contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning under similar circumstances last season. He noted his physical style could benefit the Red Wings: "Having played against this group for a while in Ottawa... I thought that could be a good fit for both sides."

Watson was drafted by the Nashville Predators as the 18th overall pick in 2010 and has accumulated 118 points across his career with several teams. Reflecting on his potential contribution to Detroit, he stated: "I have an idea of what I can potentially bring to the team and hopefully make an impact."

Coach Lalonde has expressed satisfaction with Watson's performance during Training Camp so far: "We expect him to win battles... Through two games so far, he’s done that well."