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Brendan Smith News
The Detroit Red Wings, as expected, have recalled defenseman Brendan Smith from the Grand Rapids Griffins. This enables Smith to serve two more games of his five-game suspension (Thursday and Saturday) while Mike Commodore remains on short-term injured reserve.

Smith has no fantasy hockey value until he finishes serving his suspension.

Brendan Smith
DETROIT -- Detroit Red Wings defenseman Brendan Smith has been suspended for the remainder of the preseason and five regular season games by the NHL for his shoulder check to the head of Chicago Blackhawks forward Ben Smith in Wednesday's preseason game at the United Center.

Smith was not expected to make the team unless the Brad Stuart injury prevented him from staying in the lineup. The former 27th overall pick scored 12 goals and 32 points over 63 games for the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL. He probably is close to NHL ready as he remains the team's top prospect.

Brendan Smith
Smith, however, will be recalled only when he can be in the Red Wings’ lineup. The club isn’t going to bring him up just to be a healthy scratch as the seventh defenseman.

As the team's top prospect, Smith will continue to play as much as possible. Last season, as a first year pro, the Mimico, ONT native produced 12 goals and 32 points through 63 games for the Grand Rapid Griffins. Look for him to continue developing his game at the AHL level, gaining a callup with any significant injuries.

Brendan Smith