Red Wings Bring Back Williams

The Detroit Red Wings announced on Thursday that they had agreed to terms with restricted free agent forward Jason Williams, avoiding an arbitration hearing that had been scheduled for next Monday.

As per club policy, financial terms of the two-year deal were not announced.

“We are pleased to reach a deal with Jason before going to arbitration,” Detroit general manager Ken Holland said. “He took a big step forward as an NHL player last year and we look forward to even more progress in the future.”

Williams had a breakout year in 2005-06, playing in 80 games while scoring 21 goals and adding 37 assists.