The Detroit Red Wings waived forward Mattias Ritola on Monday. If he goes unclaimed, he will be sent to the Grand Rapids Griffins.
Ritola was one of seven forwards aiming to fill the last five roster spots up front for Detroit. Justin Abdelkader and Darren Helm are set to play on the team’s fourth line, likely joined by Drew Miller and the currently-injured Kris Draper and Patrick Eaves.
Longtime Red Wing Kirk Maltby was also in the mix but is also expected to be waived and sent to Grand Rapids.