Michael Hutchinson, one of Detroit’s goaltenders last season, has signed a PTO to attend the New Jersey Devils’ training camp this month.

Last season, the 34-year-old goaltender was unofficially Detroit’s fourth goalie and spent the majority of his time with the Grand Rapids Griffins. However, he did play one game with the Red Wings, a 3-2 loss to the Devils. Perhaps this was enough to persuade the Devils to accept the veteran into their camp. It begins on September 18.

Last season, Hutchinson played 32 games for the Griffins, recording a 2.89 goals-against average and.894 save percentage. He had a 14-14-2 record in a role that included some tutoring for young Detroit prospect Sebastian Cossa.

The Red Wings have Cam Talbot, Alex Lyon, Ville Husso, and Jack Campbell under contract. Coach Derek Lalonde will allow them to contend for the starting position. The assumption is that Campbell will end up playing alongside Cossa in Grand Rapids. Campbell has a solid reputation for being a polished professional and a great teammate.

However, injuries, like performance, have the potential to significantly alter the circumstance. Campbell has 176 NHL games on his CV. It is not impossible that he may end up in Detroit, depending on how well he plays.

Hutchinson has appeared in 154 NHL games with six different clubs (the Winnipeg Jets, Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, and Red Wings).

 

Hutchinson has appeared in 154 NHL games with six different clubs (the Winnipeg Jets, Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, and Red Wings).

In New Jersey, he is a possible No. 3 goalie behind Jacob Markstrom (acquired this offseason) and Jake Allen. If the Devils do not sign him, Hutchison has at least demonstrated himself for other teams in the league to consider.