from Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press,

Early indications are Justin Abdelkader will start the season on what’s expected to be an energy line for the Detroit Red Wings.

He’s coming off the least productive full season of his NHL career in nine years, and three seasons removed from his last one topping 40 points. At 32, Abdelkader is trying to figure out how he can make an impact on the team, what his role can be. An injury delayed his appearance in an exhibition game until this week, but he’s been slotted to play next to fellow veterans Luke Glendening and Darren Helm since the start of training camp.

“Hopefully I can contribute this year whether it’s points, penalty kill, power play, being physical,” Abdelkader said.

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