Feb 18, 2015; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Montreal Canadiens goalie Dustin Tokarski (35) makes a save in the second period against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre.

Photo credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

The Detroit Red Wings have signed former standout goaltender Dustin Tokarski in a surprise turn of events.

The organization continues to plunder the depths of professional hockey for talent, as they added to their ranks today.

Originally drafted 122nd overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2008, he has been a depth option in the NHL his entire career.

He had a standout year with the Montreal Canadiens during the 2014-15 season, where he played 17 games with the Original Six team, with a 6-6-4 record, a 2.75 GAA, and a .910 save percentage during the regular season and a 2-0-0 record in the playoffs.

Dustin Tokarski Signs with the Detroit Red Wings

The team has added to its organizational depth in order to protect the health of its pipeline.

These are dire circumstances for the franchises, who are aiming for another Calder Cup playoff run.

Tokarski will be joining Gylander in the AHL and will be a tandem for the time being.

The veteran goaltender joins the Red Wings organization on a PTO, which could turn into something more.

But for now, it seems like he’s an insurance policy more than anything.

Tokarski made a league minimum deal ($775K AAV) with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2024-25. Will this be worth it for the Red Wings?

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Red Wings announce signing of former Canadiens star and fan favorite goaltender

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