Adam Erne returns for two more years in Hockeytown

DETROIT -- When opportunity knocked and his number was called last season, Adam Erne took full advantage. He eventually led the Red Wings in goals during his second campaign donning the Winged Wheel, and was rewarded with a two-year contract to remain in Hockeytown over the weekend.
By almost every measure, Erne enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2020-21. He equaled his career-high with 20 points among 11 goals and nine assists, but did so in 20 less games than his standout 2018-19 campaign with the Tampa Bay Lightning (7 goals, 13 assists in 65 games). Erne added three power play goals, and put together an eight-game point streak between April 1 and April 15 down the stretch of the season.

Erne emphasized the opportunity he was provided last season in addressing the media on Monday, and his eagerness to carry the momentum over to the upcoming 2021-22 campaign.
"I think it's being able to do something with the opportunity when you get it, and luckily I was prepared for that and I was able to do that," said Erne. "It felt good to have a year like that and hopefully next year I can pick up where I left off."

Erne was acquired by Detroit via trade with Tampa Bay prior to the 2019-20 season. He was drafted by Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman with the 33rd pick of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft when Yzerman was the GM of the Lightning. Erne made his NHL debut in the 2016-17 season, and has appeared in 215 career games, amassing 52 points among 26 goals and 26 assists.
Erne expressed his joy in returning to Detroit, and is excited about the Red Wings' potential after a busy offseason.
"I think every year that goes by, we're a young team that's getting a little older so just guys getting experience, guys we're bringing in have experience, young and more veteran guys," Erne said. "I think we're getting closer and closer, and I think we're going to be a good team next year."

Detroit will open the 2021-22 season against Tampa Bay at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, Oct. 14. The Red Wings will return to Centre ICE Arena in Traverse City, Mich., to host the NHL Prospect Tournament and Training Camp.
Advance tickets for all September Red Wings events in Traverse City will be available online this season at
www.centreice.org/drwtickets
and will also be sold first-come, first-served at the arena entrance on the day of each event.