Detroit Red Wings: What’s Next for David Booth?

After becoming a fan favorite in the 2017-18 season for the Detroit Red Wings, David Booth is a free agent and his future is unclear

David Booth proved to be one of the greatest underdog stories of the year in the hockey world during the 2017-2018 season. Going into the Detroit Red Wings training camp, he was brought in on a professional tryout along with P.A. Parenteau.

The likelihood of Booth making the team was slim to none, given the lack of cap space, roster openings and the fact that he had not played a game in the NHL since the 2014-15 season. However, he proved to be not only a leader at training camp, but an offensive contributor as well.  It was with his work ethic and drive that got Booth, a Michigan native, on the roster.

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Achieving a roster spot for him was one thing, but getting playing time was another. On a team full of veteran players and promising young players, Booth had to prove he deserved the playing time.

Due to injuries and a lack of team success, he was inserted into the Red Wings lineup for 28 games. In those 28 games, Booth managed to score four goals, tally along one assist and spark an energy in the team.

Although the numbers he posted for the 2017-18 season were less than staggering, it was a huge step in his career. After sustaining a major head injury while playing with the Florida Panthers in 2009, Booth’s playing style became understandably timid. His numbers in every category deteriorated after this, resulting in him bouncing around from the Panthers to the Canucks to the Maple Leafs then the KHL. In a time of difficulty and struggle, Booth found faith and hope that he would return to NHL action.

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The stars aligned for him in his return to NHL hockey when he was offered a professional tryout with the Wings. Booth returned home where he belonged. Although he was not an everyday starting player, he was a key part of the Red Wings.  Booth was the underdog who hustled every shift, fighting to keep his job.

His time in Detroit may have been short but it was impactful for not just the Red Wings, but for Booth himself. He showed that he can still compete at the NHL level. That should shine brightly on any NHL teams looking for a strong forechecking forward. At 33 years of age, Booth is not as young as he once was, but he adds value to any team’s lineup.

Whether he plays in the AHL or NHL, teams can expect him to give his all every night. Throughout Booth’s hockey career, he has faced a lot of adversity. Yet anytime he finds himself in a struggle, he comes out successful or bettered in the end. Teams admire that and like having that type of player on their team.

As of now, Booth has yet to announce whether he will be coming back next season or not. If he retires, he would have a happy ending to his hockey career, finishing in the city in which he started playing hockey.

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However, at 33 years old, Booth could have a couple more seasons left in the tank. Whatever he decides, he has been one of the most unique characters and players in hockey in a long time.