Stafford Signs With Wings

The Detroit Red Wings, parent club of the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins, announced on Monday the signings of eight players to contracts, including left wing Matt Ellis, who led the Griffins with 26 goals during the 2006-07 season.

“These players are valuable acquisitions for the Red Wings organization,” said Detroit assistant general manager Jim Nill. “In addition to greatly upgrading our team’s depth, we expect them to vie for a spot on the Red Wings' roster during training camp.”

Joining the Wings for the first time are forwards Carl Corazzini, Mark Cullen, Randall Gelech and Mark Hartigan; defensemen Brad Ference and Garrett Stafford; and goaltender Adam Berkhoel.

Stafford spent the last four seasons with San Jose's AHL affiliates, recording 40 goals and 110 assists for 150 points in 298 games. Last year, he had 41 points (11g, 30a) in 77 contests for Worcester.

Stafford was a Second Team AHL All-Star and an All-Rookie Team selection in 2003-04, when he compiled 12 goals and 34 assists for 46 points in 73 games for Cleveland.

*Courtesy of the Detroit Red Wings