Prospects No More: Deadline to Sign Oslund and Rufenach Passes
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As expected the Red Wings opted not to sign Bryan Rufenach (pictured) and Nick Oslund by today’s deadline for college prospects. Both players completed their fourth and final years of college eligibility and are now unrestricted free agents. While Detroit opted not to sign either by the deadline, they have invited both players to participate in the 2011 prospect tournament and training camp on free agent tryout contracts.
The 6-foot-3, 210 pound Oslund never developed into the hard hitting gritty forward the Red Wings coveted when they drafted him with a seventh round pick in 2006. In his four years with St. Cloud State University, the Minnesota native produced just 10 goals and 25 points in 146 NCAA games. Oslund is a good skater with size, but he lacks the ability to contribute offensively and he doesn’t play physical for a player of his stature.
The 6-foot, 187 pound Rufenach is an offensive defenseman who hasn’t developed a strong enough defensive game to earn a contract with Detroit. The Cameron, Ontario product was a seventh round selection in the 2007 NHL draft who intrigued the Wings with his skating ability and offensive potential. In his four seasons with Clarkson University, Rufenach notched 21 goals and 55 points in 136 NCAA games. Rufenach’s skating and good overall offensive instincts allowed him to be Clarkson’s top threat on the blue line, but his defensive game and decision making skills were maddening for fans to watch. Both he and Oslund will have one final chance to impress the Wings brass this September in Traverse City, MI.