Abdelkader released from Griffins tryout, joins Team USA as alternate for 2022 Olympics

Justin Abdelkader’s return to the Detroit Red Wings organization has ended after just three games. After signing a tryout agreement with the Grand Rapids Griffins (the Red Wings’ American Hockey League affiliate) on Jan. 21, Abdelkader was released by the Griffins on Thursday to pursue an opportunity as an alternate with Team USA at the 2022 Winter Olympics men’s ice hockey tournament in Beijing. The Griffins also released a statement on Abdelkader’s departure, which included the following excerpt: This will be Abdelkader’s sixth time representing his nation, as the Muskegon, Mich., [product] most recently captained Team USA to a bronze medal at the 2021 World Championship. The forward captured his first bronze medal at the 2007 World Junior Championship, made his World Championship debut in 2012 before first serving as captain in 2014, then played in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. While wearing the Red, White and Blue, Abdelkader has amassed 12 points (5-7—12) and 47 penalty minutes in 31 contests. The 14-ye