from Ansar Khan of Mlive,

2019-20 outlook: Abdelkader experienced his worst season, continuing a downward trend in performance and production since his best year (2014-15), which resulted in a seven-year, $29.5 million extension.

Unless he rebounds in a big way, he’ll probably be relegated to the fourth line. He’ll continue playing on the penalty kill but isn’t likely to see net-front duty on the power play, roles that will remain with Tyler Bertuzzi and, if he makes the roster, Michael Rasmussen.

Abdelkader is most effective when he’s creating havoc in the hard areas of the ice, in the corners and in front of the net, playing physical without taking bad penalties, creating space for skilled players and contributing some offense.

If Abdelkader continues to struggle and younger players are ready to step into the lineup, it’s not out of the question he could be waived (he would clear) and assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins (only $1.075 million of his salary would come off the cap).

Another poor season could prompt the Red Wings to buy out Abdelkader of the final three years of his contract in the off-season. It would cost a total of $6.3 million over six years ($1.8M, $2.3M, $2.3M, $1.05M, $1.05M and $1.05M against the cap annually through 2025-26).

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