Report: Athanasiou preparing for the worst in Red Wings standoff

Many believe that the contract impasse will come to an end, but Detroit News's Gregg Krupa speculates there could be more than just salary issues behind restricted free agent Andreas Athanasiou’s contract standoff with the Detroit Red Wings. 

The young winger has no arbitration rights and little leverage, and GM Ken Holland has made it quite clear he is not looking to trade Athanasiou. Krupa suggests Athanasiou “is serious about diverting his career, playing in Europe and waiting for management to make a move.” 

Stating that this tactic will not work for the 23-year-old, Krupa speculates the Red Wings could let him play in Europe this season and revisit the issue next summer. 

The impasse is reportedly just over a mere $500K difference in salary, as the Wings are offering $1.9 million per season on a two-year deal but the Athanasiou camp seeks $2.5 million annually. 

Krupa adds that Holland is reportedly speaking with agent Darren Ferris this week. Hopefully a resolution will come out of this meeting.