Longtime NHL veteran defenseman officially assigned to AHL marks a new career low

The Detroit Red Wings have demoted Erik Gustafsson to the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins. This isn't welcome news, as he'll be joining an AHL team for the first time since 2017-18, when he suited up for the Rockford IceHogs.

The veteran defenseman was hit with the news unexpectedly, as the team promoted Axel Sandin-Pellikka and Jacob Bernard-Docker into the lineup after an exciting training camp for the Red Wings.

Much like the youth movement in Chicago is alive and well, it's thriving in Detroit.

Erik Gustafsson's time in Detroit has been spent as a bottom-pairing defenseman with some offensive upside.

His 515 games of experience wouldn't be able to save him from demotion, as the Red Wings promoted multiple prospects into the opening night lineup this season, including Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Jacob Bernard-Docker, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, and forward Emitt Finnie, who has been a pest for Blackhawks fans.

Originally a 93rd overall draft pick of the Edmonton Oilers, Gustafsson's career has been defined by his journeyman story in the NHL, playing for the Chicago Blackhawks, Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Calgary Flames, New York Rangers, and Philadelphia Flyers.

Now, he'll get to experience minor-league hockey for the first time in 7 years. A prospect that isn't exciting for someone who has played the majority of his career in the NHL.

Gustafsson was waived by the Red Wings this past weekend, joining his brother on a trip to the AHL, as David would be headed to the Manitoba Moose.

Will Erik Gustafsson find a way out of the minor leagues again after being demoted by the Red Wings?

The former Blackhawk signed a contract with the Red Wings for a two-year, $2 million AAV deal.