Detroit Red Wings: Luke Witkowski Brings Needed Physicality
By Tyler Samson
Ever since the Detroit Red Wings signed Luke Witkowski in July of 2017, they have been blessed with his physicality and toughness.
Detroit Red Wings defenseman Luke Witkowski’s path to the National Hockey League was not an easy one by any means. It was full of ups and downs. To make a name for himself and to get the attention of NHL scouts, Witkowski had to fight. Literally.
With an NHL total of 136 penalty minutes (60 of those minutes deriving from five-minute fighting majors) in just 102 games, he has shown he is one of toughest guys in hockey.
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Witkowski embarked on his NHL career when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning with the 160th overall pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. With the Lightning, he played 54 games, registering 4 points and clocking 58 penalty minutes. Witkowski really embraced the role of an enforcer when he played with the Syracuse Crunch in the AHL.
With the Crunch, he served as a captain in the 2016-17 season and was one of the leaders in penalty minutes each season. The most impressive season with the Crunch for Witkowski was the 2013-14 season. In that season, Luke had 2 goals, 10 assists and 204 penalty minutes. The 204 penalty minutes from Witkowski led the team that season and sent a message to the hockey world about Witkowski’s grit.
After the conclusion of the 2016-17 season with the Lightning, the Holland, Michigan native joined his hometown team, the Detroit Red Wings. As a member of the Red Wings for the 2017-18 season, Witkowski played 31 games, scored his first NHL goal and clocked 68 penalty minutes. In that season, Witkowski fought some of the toughest guys in the league like Michael Haley and Nick Ritchie.
Next. Top 10 Toughest Red Wings. dark
Currently, Witkowski is continuing his trend as a tough guy for the Wings as he has had two total fights in 17 games played. The 6’2” defenseman is not a superstar by any means, but he serves a crucial role for the Wings. Witkowski brings a rare breed of toughness that cannot be learned or adapted. Luke’s role has allowed his teammates to play with comfort and ease knowing that he will protect them if anybody tries to cross the line.