By bringing back Mike Green and Thomas Vanek, the rebuilding Detroit Red Wings are projected to have one of the oldest rosters in the NHL.
The moves might block a younger player or two from making the team.
But general manager Ken Holland cited several reasons for wanting to sign these veterans, not the least of which is their offensive ability for a team that ranked 28th in the NHL in goals per game.
Vanek, 34, signed a one-year contract for $3 million, after producing 24 goals and 56 points for Vancouver and Columbus last season.