Red Wings recall defenseman Justin Holl

“There’s certain things that may be out of your control,” Holl acknowledged. “I know that we’re trying to manage the cap as best we can. So, that was explained to me and I understand that from a management’s perspective, but it’s difficult for the player for sure.

His latest up and down shift was basically a paper transaction, designed to save the Red Wings some on the salary cap. Still, for someone who’s played in 325 NHL games, it’s all quite the humbling experience.

“I just want to be a part of this group and I know that I’m an NHL player, so that hurts,” Holl said. “But at the same time, all you can do is stay focused and be ready and try to play as well as you can when you get the call.”

Holl Solid In Two Red Wings Games

No one can deny that in his two Red Wings appearances this season, Holl was a stellar performer. Stepping in for the injured Jeff Petry, Holl was playing a top-four role in the second defense pairing alongside Simon Edvinsson.

He made the play for Dylan Larkin’s buzzer-beating goal at the end of the first period of Monday’s 4-1 loss to the New York Rangers. Along with that assist, Holl was plus-one through his two-game stint.

“I just asked him to be ready and he was great,” Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde said. “Good on him and it’s a good sign that he performed well.”