Danny DeKeyser talks about his new Red Wings contract

By Nick Barnowski – 

LANSING – Detroit Red Wings defenseman Danny DeKeyser will enter training camp with one word on his mind.

Relief.

The 24-year-old restricted free agent signed a two-year contract with the club Tuesday night, keeping the Clay Township native in his home state.

DeKeyser spoke with MiHockey Wednesday morning about the new deal while appearing at the Red Wings’ Michigan National Guard Joint Forces Headquarters visit in Lansing.

“It’s kind of a relief because now I just got to go out there and play hockey, which is what I feel like I do best,” DeKeyser said. “It’s kind of like a weight off your shoulders. Nothing to worry about.

“It was coming down to the last few days here but it just feels good to get that done with.”

Despite confidence that the Western Michigan alum and the Red Wings would reach a deal, negotiations extended until one day before the start of training camp. DeKeyser and the Red Wings are scheduled to arrive in Traverse City Wednesday night.

“Restricted free agency is what it is,” DeKeyser said. “It was just nailing down the last few details there, the numbers, the term, everything like that.”

Even without a contract, DeKeyser skated with his Red Wings teammates over the summer at Joe Louis Arena and said he didn’t miss a beat.

The former Compuware standout had 23 points in 65 games in 2013-14, his first full NHL season. After impressing the Red Wings’ front office and coaching staff with his mobility, passing, and improved offensive ability, DeKeyser is now seeking to solidify himself as a top-four defenseman with the club.

“I’m looking forward to getting back on the ice with the team and seeing all the guys again in Traverse City,” he said. “I like it up there, just getting ready for the season.”