Red Wings Assign Rafferty, Recall Watson Amid Season Push

DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings announced the assignment of defenseman Brogan Rafferty to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins on March 23, 2025. The move comes as the team navigates the final stretch of the season, aiming for playoff positioning.

Rafferty, 29, has had a notable season with the Griffins, recording 19 points (6 goals, 13 assists) and 17 penalty minutes in 50 games during the 2024-25 campaign. His performance reflects his growing role within the team, following a successful previous season where he notched 29 points (4-25-29) and maintained a plus-three rating in 62 regular-season games.

In the recent playoff run, Rafferty contributed four assists and achieved a plus-six rating in nine Calder Cup Playoff games, playing a pivotal part in leading the Griffins to the Central Division Finals. “Brogan has shown great consistency and growth in his game, and we are confident in his ability to make an impact as he continues to develop,” said Griffins head coach.

Rafferty first joined the professional ranks as an undrafted free agent with the Vancouver Canucks on April 1, 2019. He made a brief appearance with the Canucks in 2018-19 and 2020-21, but has since built an impressive resume in the AHL. Over 306 games, he has accumulated 168 points (30-138-168), a plus-41 rating, and 115 penalty minutes, earning recognition as an AHL All-Star in 2020.

In addition to Rafferty’s assignment, the Red Wings also recalled forward Austin Watson from the Griffins. Watson, 33, has a wealth of NHL experience, having skated in 517 games with the Nashville Predators, Ottawa Senators, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Detroit. This season, he has played in two games with the Red Wings, logging two penalty minutes, one shot, and six hits in an average of 7:00 ice time.

Watson has also made significant contributions to the Griffins this season, ranking among the team leaders with 16 goals and 37 points while maintaining a plus-nine rating. “Austin’s experience and ability to perform under pressure make him a valuable asset for our team during this crucial time,” said Red Wings head coach.

Originally drafted 18th overall by the Predators in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Watson has recorded 118 points (50 goals, 68 assists) and accumulated 707 penalty minutes across his NHL career. Additionally, his playoff experience includes 19 points in 45 postseason games, where he played a role in advancing the Predators to the Stanley Cup Final in 2017.

Before turning professional, Watson built a solid foundation in the junior leagues, winning championships with the Windsor Spitfires and the London Knights in the Ontario Hockey League. His leadership experience also includes serving as an alternate captain with Team USA at various international tournaments.