Detroit Red Wings defenceman Simon Edvinsson has returned to Sweden as he continues to wait for a new contract as a restricted free agent.
Edvinsson, who spent training camp with the Red Wings, skated with Frolunda of the SHL on Wednesday, as relayed by Swedish reporter Andreas III Johnsson.
TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun reported Sunday that negotiations have been “a grind” between the two sides but were expected to continue this week ahead of Detroit’s season opener.
The 23-year-old blueliner did not play in any pre-season games for the Red Wings. He posted nine goals and 16 assists over 72 games last season.
Selected sixth overall by the Red Wings in 2021, the native of Sweden has 19 goals and 41 assists over 175 career games in Detroit.
The Red Wings have been in state of turmoil recently after captain Dylan Larkin asked for a trade in June followed by Steve Yzerman stepping down from his role as general manager in July.
Larkin is still with the team, but had his captaincy stripped in September while Shawn Horcoff took over GM duties on an interim basis.
Detroit opens their season on Friday against the visiting New York Rangers.
