Red Wings waive defenseman Madison Bowey

Shortly before today’s morning skate, the Red Wings made a roster change. Per Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, defenseman Madison Bowey has been waived, and is expected to be assigned to Grand Rapids, should he clear.

This move most likely comes in response to Trevor Daley’s return from injury. Daley has been out the past few weeks, but has slowly started to become a regular in practice once again. Bowey gets the boot over Jonathan Ericsson, Alex Biega, and Dylan McIlrath, all of who have been waived this season. As surprising as that may sound, Jeff Blashill has actually been favoring those three over Bowey in the more recent games.

Its been a rough season for Bowey, as poor defensive play has marginalized his role. He was originally acquired at the trade deadline last season, along with a second round pick, for Nick Jensen. A worthwhile experiment, considering Bowey is just 24-years-old and a once highly touted prospect, but a breakout never materialized.

Due to his horrid advanced metrics, I’d be surprised to see him be claimed. Then again, former general manager Ken Holland took the chance on him. Holland could very well take another swing for his Edmonton Oilers, or so can another GM with the same mindset. If Bowey does clear, however, he’ll most likely fill a top-4 role for the Griffins while Ericsson and McIlrath remain with Detroit. Some more playing time should also open up when Moritz Seider joins Team Germany for the World Junior Championships later this month.

In 22 games this season for the Red Wings, Bowey produced 1 goal and 8 points. Like Ericsson, improved play in the AHL could earn him another shot in the NHL later this season if injuries occur.