The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward Austin Watson to a one-year, two-way contract extension.
Watson, 33, has appeared in two games with the Red Wings during the 2024-25 season, recording two penalty minutes, one shot, and six hits while averaging 7:00 of ice time. The 6-foot-4, 210-pound forward has also played 52 games with the Grand Rapids Griffins, ranking among the team’s leaders in several categories, including 12 goals (T-3rd), 20 assists (4th), 32 points (3rd), and 94 penalty minutes (1st). He also represented the Griffins at the 2025 AHL All-Star Classic alongside goaltender Sebastian Cossa.
Watson spent the 2023-24 season with the Tampa Bay Lightning, tallying four points (2-2-4) and 93 penalty minutes in 33 games. Originally drafted 18th overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, he has accumulated 118 points (60-58-118) and 707 penalty minutes in 517 NHL games with the Predators, Ottawa Senators, Lightning, and Red Wings. Watson has also played in 45 Stanley Cup Playoff games, contributing 19 points (10-9-19) and helping the Predators reach the 2017 Stanley Cup Final.
A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., Watson played four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League, winning OHL championships with Windsor (2009) and London (2012). He also represented Team USA on multiple occasions, serving as an alternate captain at the 2022 IIHF World Championship and winning gold at the 2010 IIHF U18 World Championship.
Watson’s extension adds depth and experience to the Red Wings’ roster as they continue their 2024-25 campaign.
Leave a Reply