Red Wings waive defensemen Jonathan Ericsson

Tuesday afternoon it was announced the Detroit Red Wings have waived veteran defensemen Jonathan Ericsson, in what is a move that caught many off guard. Ericsson, 35, has not played yet this season due to a lingering injury. Now on waivers, he is expected to clear and be assigned to Grand Rapids of the AHL.

Ericsson was drafted by the Red Wings with the very last draft pick in the 2002 NHL draft, making him the longest tenure player in the Detroit system. Now in his 10th season since joining the Red Wings full time in 2009-10, he has been apart of the D-corps for a very long time. However, injuries have plagued his career, playing over 70 games just four times.

His limited availability, as well a new general manager at the helm is what lost him a spot on the roster. Former GM Ken Holland was known for his loyalty to players, which may have played a part in Ericsson lasting for so long. But now with Yzerman in charge, he’s doing things his way, and ultimately decided to send down the Swedish blue-liner.

Ericsson has been the team scapegoat for years, but that shouldn’t undermine what he contributed to the franchise. He was there for the 2009 playoff run, and suited up 662 times with the Winged Wheel on his sweater.

Happy for some, sad for others, this might truly be an indication that a new era has begun in Motown. Out with the old, in with the new.