On Wednesday, the Detroit Red Wings looked to a familiar source for talent as they continue to add roster options for the 2010-11 season.
The source: the Filppula Family.
The older brother of Valtteri, Ilari Filppula (28), has inked a one-year two-way deal that will pay him a maximum of $500,000, should he make the big club out of training camp.
Filppula has played his entire professional career in the Finnish Elite League, beginning in 2003.
He's played the last two seasons for TPS Turku and just completed his best statistical season, finishing with 12 goals and 37 assists in 58 games.
TPS Turku emerged as Finnish Elite League Champions this year, with Filppula being awarded the Jarri Kurri Award as playoff MVP.
The elder Filppula, a winger, possesses similar puck handling and offensive skills as his younger brother, though is not as smooth a skater as Valtteri.
Filppula's biggest challenge in his quest to become an NHL player will likely be his ability to adapt to the physicality of the NHL, as well as the smaller playing surface.
Considered to be one of the best players in Finland, R ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Matt Hutter
Detroit Red Wings: Two Filppulas in Motown, Both With Something To Prove
June 16th, 2010 by Matt Hutter Leave a reply »
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