31-Year-Old Dominik Shine Makes NHL Debut for Hometown Red Wings

DETROIT — Dominik Shine, a 31-year-old forward, made his NHL debut for the Detroit Red Wings on Monday night at Little Caesars Arena, fulfilling a lifelong dream in front of his 21-month-old son. Shine, who spent nine seasons in the American Hockey League (AHL), became the oldest skater to debut in the NHL since Evgeny Medvedev in 2015.

“I just can’t believe …” Shine said, his voice trailing off. “To be here today, it’s just … It’s amazing.”

Shine, a Detroit native, grew up idolizing Red Wings legends like Kris Draper and Kirk Maltby. After a standout career in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins, where he played 462 games, Shine finally got the call to join the Red Wings due to injuries and illnesses on the roster. He signed a two-year contract and reported to Detroit just hours before the game.

“It was crazy,” Shine said, recalling the moment he received the news while driving his son, Cooper, to buy ice skates. “To have him look at me and smile, I can’t put it into words.”

Shine’s perseverance paid off. In his debut, he logged 9:50 of ice time, recording two hits, two takeaways, one blocked shot, and one shot attempt. His journey resonated with teammates and coaches alike. “He’s persevered,” said Red Wings coach Todd McLellan. “He’s resilient. I’m sure there’s been moments he’s probably looked in the mirror and gone, ‘What the hell am I doing?’ But he stuck with it and got rewarded.”

Shine’s story is one of determination and family. After considering retirement last season due to the strain of being away from his wife, Taylor, and son, he decided to continue playing so his son could see him on the ice. His parents, who were vacationing in Maui, missed the game, but friends and family filled the stands to witness his milestone.

Shine’s career year in the AHL, where he tallied 32 points in 40 games, earned him the opportunity. He ranks among the Griffins’ all-time leaders in games played, goals, and penalty minutes. His journey began in the United States Hockey League and continued at Northern Michigan University, where he earned All-Star honors.

As the Red Wings celebrated their victory with Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Shine reflected on his long-awaited debut. “Way better,” he said with a smile, comparing the reality to his childhood dreams.