The third attempt has been a charm for the Detroit Red Wings.
Frans Nielsen, signed last summer to be the second-line center after the disappointments that were Stephen Weiss and Brad Richards, is getting the job done. Nielsen played a key role in the Wings going into the Christmas break on a jolly note, scoring in regulation and shootout Friday at Florida to cement a victory. He also led the Wings with five shots on net that night.
Overall, the 32-year-old Dane leads the team with seven power-play points and two short-handed goals, is second with eight goals (among 18 points) and averages 17:32 minutes per game as he plays in all situations.