According to a Detroit Free Press report posted late Monday, forward Mike Modano will sign with the Detroit Red Wings. In the report, Modano sent the Free Press a text message only saying “Big announcement Thursday”. Modano wouldn’t tip his hand, but sources close to Modano say he’s signing with Detroit. Modano is also entertaining offers from San Jose and Minnesota.
Modano, 40, is the highest-scoring American-born player in NHL history. This is somewhat of a historic off season for Modano, who has spent his entire career with one team. He spent the previous 20 seasons with the Minnesota North Stars/Dallas Stars franchise.
Modano is a native of Westland, Mich., a Detroit suburb. The ice arena in Westland is named after Modano. He was offered a one-year, $1.25 million contract. He is expected to anchor the third line, which will give Detroit three quality scoring lines.