Red Wings Claim Forward Off Waivers

The Detroit Red Wings have claimed Gemel Smith off waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Yesterday, I discussed the possibility of Smith being claimed by the Red Wings because his brother Givani plays there. Now, the pair will in fact be playing together, and that's exciting to see. 

Smith was not able to play in a single game this season with the Lightning due to a lower-body injury. With this, it also seemed possible that the 27-year-old would go unclaimed and play for the Syracuse Crunch. However, the Red Wings are going to take a chance on him, and he could be a sweet addition to their bottom six. 

In five games last season with the Lightning, Smith recorded three assists and racked up 11 penalty minutes. Although he wasn't called upon often, it's safe to say that he was productive when playing. With the Crunch, he also had three goals and three assists in just three games last season. 

In 88 career NHL games between the Dallas Stars, Boston Bruins, and Lightning, he has 12 goals, 12 assists, and 53 penalty minutes. Now, he should have the chance to build on those totals with the Red Wings. 

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