Janik inserted in lineup for tonight
With Rafalski, Ericsson ill, veteran defenseman is called up from Griffins
Tuesday, 11.03.2009 / 12:16 PM
/ News
By Michael Caples
- Detroit Red Wings Staff Writer
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DETROIT -- With Brian Rafalski and Jonathan Ericsson missing tonight’s game due to illness, the Red Wings have called up defenseman Doug Janik from Grand Rapids.
Janik, 29, has played in 161 career games in eight NHL seasons. A second round pick of the Buffalo Sabres in 1999, he has also spent time with Tampa Bay, Dallas and Montreal.
“They called a little before 9 p.m. last night,” Janik said after Tuesday’s morning skate. “I drove in from Grand Rapids, probably got here around midnight.
“Obviously everybody wants to play in the NHL, get a chance, and being with the Detroit Red Wings makes it that much more special.”
Coach Mike Babcock said that Janik should be able to fill the defensive void well tonight.
“Well, Raf and Ericsson aren’t going tonight, so Janik gets a good opportunity,” Babcock said. “He played well in the national league before, so it shouldn’t be a problem.”
Janik had recorded one goal and five assists in 10 games with the Griffins this season, along with 15 penalty minutes and a plus-4 rating.
Last season, the native of Agawam, Mass., played in 13 games with the Stars, and two with the Canadiens.
“I played a few games on a few different teams, but first game here with a new team,” Janik said, “it’s always exciting.”
Janik, 29, has played in 161 career games in eight NHL seasons. A second round pick of the Buffalo Sabres in 1999, he has also spent time with Tampa Bay, Dallas and Montreal.
“They called a little before 9 p.m. last night,” Janik said after Tuesday’s morning skate. “I drove in from Grand Rapids, probably got here around midnight.
“Obviously everybody wants to play in the NHL, get a chance, and being with the Detroit Red Wings makes it that much more special.”
Coach Mike Babcock said that Janik should be able to fill the defensive void well tonight.
“Well, Raf and Ericsson aren’t going tonight, so Janik gets a good opportunity,” Babcock said. “He played well in the national league before, so it shouldn’t be a problem.”
Janik had recorded one goal and five assists in 10 games with the Griffins this season, along with 15 penalty minutes and a plus-4 rating.
Last season, the native of Agawam, Mass., played in 13 games with the Stars, and two with the Canadiens.
“I played a few games on a few different teams, but first game here with a new team,” Janik said, “it’s always exciting.”
