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Sam Gagner's versatility, experience make him key to Wings' development

Detroit — Sam Gagner has only played 46 games in a Red Wings uniform since arriving at the trade deadline last season.

It’s not a large body of work, but certainly enough time for Gagner to show his importance and impact on a younger hockey team.

With injuries mounting and much of the Wings’ leadership unable to play, Gagner was tabbed an alternate captain.

For a 14-year veteran who understands what the NHL is about, Gagner was humbled.

“It means a lot,” Gagner said, discussing wearing the ‘A’. “It’s a storied franchise and some of the guys before me that have had the opportunity to wear a letter on their jersey, the list is pretty incredible.