The Grand Rapids Griffins acquired defenseman Dylan McIlrath in the deal that sent Thomas Vanek to the Florida Panthers on March 1. McIlrath, aka “The Undertaker”, is an imposing (6’5”, 235 pounds) former first round blue-liner drafted by the New York Rangers in 2010. He as only appeared in 44 total NHL games played with the Florida Panthers and New York Rangers, tallying more penalty minutes than points.
While many Red Wings’ fans were saddened by the loss of Thomas Vanek to the Panthers, at least one person was excited about bringing McIlrath into Detroit’s organization, Griffins coach, Todd Nelson.