Red Wings recall defenseman William Lagesson ahead of Jets matchup

Defenseman William Lagesson will join the Detroit Red Wings for their game Saturday night as an insurance option. The organization announced they’ve recalled Lagesson from their AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Lagesson’s recall is likely in response to Jeff Petry’s status Saturday night. Petry sustained an undisclosed injury in the team’s recent win against the Columbus Blue Jackets last night, limiting him to 17:17 of ice time despite averaging nearly 20 minutes for much of the season.

Even if Petry’s injury keeps him out of the lineup Saturday night, his minutes will likely go to Albert Johansson, who hasn’t factored into Todd McLellan’s scheme since taking over behind the bench on December 26th. Johansson has largely skated in a depth role for Detroit this season, tallying one assist in 17 contests.

That’s more than Lagesson can say. This roster move marks Largesson’s fourth recall to the Red Wings’ active roster this season, but he’s only appeared in two games. He skated on a third-pairing role in those contests, averaging 15:57 of ice time without finding the scoresheet.

His real value has come in AHL Grand Rapids, where Lagesson continues to be a defensive boon. He’s only scored three goals and nine points in 23 games for the Griffins this year but leads the team with an impressive +13 rating.

If Detroit is sure that Petry can suit up against the Jets by Saturday morning, there’s a real chance that Lagesson could head back to Grand Rapids as early as Saturday. The Griffins line up against the Milwaukee Admirals Saturday night but won’t have another game until Jan. 10, meaning Lagesson may not participate in a game for a week.