from Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News,

“Nobody is guaranteed a spot, that’s just how it is,” Witkowski said of the battle for jobs. “It’s going to be competitive. Guys are worried about their jobs. Coaches, the organization, the Red Wings have a history of winning and we want to get back to the playoffs.

“That’s the number one goal. You look at that locker room, everyone is a competitor and we want to be in the playoffs. We were right there in so many games. We have the players, the ability to do so (make the playoffs).”

What may help Witkowski (6-foot-2, 217 pounds) in his attempt to the make the roster is not just his willingness to protect teammates but also his versatility.

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