NHL Rumors: 2 Teams Eyeing Austin Watson

Austin Watson is still available in free agency, but it appears that the veteran winger is starting to generate some interest. Two teams currently looking at the 31-year-old as a possible free-agent target include the Detroit Red Wings and Calgary Flames.

The Red Wings have had another big offseason, adding players like Alex DeBrincat, J.T. Compher, Shayne Gostisbehere, and Justin Holl. As a result of this, many believe that they will be competing for a playoff spot this upcoming season. However, they certainly could use more toughness, so it makes sense that they are considering Watson. It also does hurt that he is a Michigan native.

The Flames, on the other hand, lost multiple bottom-six forwards this summer. After losing Milan Lucic and Trevor Lewis, the Flames would be wise to add some more sandpaper to their group. That is something that Watson would provide for them, so signing him to a cheap one-year deal could be an avenue worth exploring.

We will need to wait and see if either of these two clubs take a chance on Watson from here.