Little Caesars Cements Its Status as Value Leader with First-Ever “More for $9.99” Menu

July 8, 2025

• Numerous combinations of Classic Pizzas, Crazy Combo, Pretzel Crust, Crazy Puffs, and even the new Fantastic Four-N-One Pizza!

• Each $9.99 combo includes at least two of the brand’s most popular items, giving customers more for their money  

Little Caesars, proudly known for providing the best value in pizza*, continues its legacy with the launch of its More for $9.99 Menu. Enjoy an affordable feast of your favorites or mix and match to make everyone happy with the perfect combination for a lunchtime treat, dinner with friends, movie night, or gameday spread.  

The new More for $9.99 Menu is a value vault of flavor, containing many possibilities for beloved classics and new favorites. Choose between these delicious pairings for $9.99 each:

• Two Large Classic Pepperoni or Cheese Pizzas, or one of each flavor

• A Classic Pepperoni Pizza and an order of Crazy Puffs

• The new Fantastic FOUR-N-ONE pizza with a Crazy Combo that includes Crazy Bread and Crazy Sauce

• A Pretzel Crust Pizza with a Crazy Combo that includes Crazy Bread and Crazy Sauce

• A Crazy Puffs Party Pack with twelve Pepperoni or Cheese Crazy Puffs, or a combination of both flavors

“As the value leader in pizza, we don’t follow trends—we set them. Our new $9.99 menu is a bold move that delivers unbeatable variety and flavor at a price that speaks for itself,” said Greg Hamilton, CMO at Little Caesars. “We know our customers expect more from Little Caesars, and this menu proves we’re ready to deliver—again.”

Little Caesars guests are passionate and value-driven, two qualities that influenced the creation of the More for $9.99 Menu. Little Caesars makes it easy to order and enjoy, providing the answer to all value meal questions, no strings attached.

The More for $9.99 Menu is more than just a value menu—it’s the key to a satisfying meal that keeps you, your taste buds, and your wallet happy.  

The More for $9.99 Menu is coming to Little Caesars nationwide on July 7th, 2025 and is available online only at all participating locations.

Red Wings Hire Michael Leighton as Goaltending Coach

July 7, 2025

2025 AHL Hall of Fame Inductee Spent Parts of Three Seasons as Goaltending Coach with OHL’s Windsor Spitfires

Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman today announced that the team has hired Michael Leighton as Goaltending Coach.

Leighton, 44, joins the organization after spending parts of three seasons as Goaltending Coach of the Ontario Hockey League’s Windsor Spitfires from 2021-24. During his tenure with the Spitfires, Leighton helped the team win back-to-back Western Conference regular-season titles in 2021-22 and 2022-23. The Spitfires also clinched a berth in the 2022 OHL Championship Series, falling to the Hamilton Bulldogs in seven games. Leighton began his coaching career after playing 18 seasons of professional hockey from 2001-19.

Originally selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the sixth round (165th overall) of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, Leighton posted a 37-43-10-4 record with a 2.98 goals-against average, a 0.900 save percentage and four shutouts in 110 regular-season appearances with the Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, Philadelphia Flyers and Carolina Hurricanes. Leighton became the first goaltender in Blackhawks history to earn a shutout in his NHL debut, stopping all 31 shots he faced in a goalless tie on Jan. 8, 2003 vs. Phoenix. He also logged an 8-4 record with a 2.54 goals-against average, a 0.913 save percentage and three shutouts in 16 postseason contests, helping the Flyers reach the 2010 Stanley Cup Final. Leighton tied an NHL record for most shutouts in a single Stanley Cup Playoff series, collecting three shutouts in five starts during the 2010 Eastern Conference Final vs. Montréal.

Leighton also played parts of 15 seasons in the American Hockey League, earning induction into the AHL Hall of Fame in 2025. In total, Leighton compiled a 250-186-55 record with a 2.38 goals-against average, a 0.916 save percentage and 50 shutouts in 507 AHL games with the Norfolk Admirals, Rochester Americans, Portland Pirates, Philadelphia/Adirondack Phantoms, Albany River Rats, Rockford IceHogs, Charlotte Checkers, Syracuse Crunch, Chicago Wolves, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Ontario Reign and Utica Comets. His 50 shutouts are the most by a goaltender in AHL history, surpassing the mark held by Johnny Bower (45). Leighton also owned a 13-12 record with a 1.67 goals-against average, a 0.946 save percentage and five shutouts in 28 Calder Cup Playoff games. He holds the AHL record for most saves in a single game, stopping 98-of-101 shots in a five-overtime contest with Albany on April 24, 2008 vs. Philadelphia.

Leighton played in five AHL All-Star Classics (2002, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2017) and was named the recipient of the 2007-08 Aldege “Baz” Bastien Memorial Award as the league’s most outstanding goaltender after finishing with a 28-25-4 record with a 2.10 goals-against average, a 0.931 save percentage and seven shutouts in 58 appearances with Albany. Leighton also earned a place on the AHL’s Rookie Team in 2001-02 after logging a 27-16-8 record with a 2.14 goals-against average, a 0.920 save percentage and six shutouts in 52 games with Norfolk. Additionally, Leighton spent the 2013-14 campaign with Donbass Donetsk in the Kontinental Hockey League, showing a 20-16-6 record with a 1.74 goals-against average, a 0.933 save percentage and six shutouts in 42 regular-season games. He also tallied a 3-4 record with a 2.57 goals-against average and a 0.908 save percentage in eight Gagarin Cup Playoff games.

A native of Petrolia, Ont., Leighton played three seasons with the Spitfires prior to turning professional, posting a 53-47-9 record with a 3.30 goals-against average, a 0.903 save percentage and three shutouts in 124 OHL games from 1998-01. Leighton also made 46 appearances with the Petrolia Jets in the Western Ontario Hockey League from 1996-98.

Little Caesars Brings the Heat to Dubai in First-Ever UAE Opening

July 7, 2025

Entry into the UAE marks a major step in the brand’s global expansion strategy

Little Caesars, the world’s third-largest pizza chain, is officially expanding to the United Arab Emirates. The first store will open in July 2025 in the vibrant neighborhood of Al Barsha, Dubai, bringing the brand’s iconic HOT-N-READY® pizza—celebrated for its high quality, affordability, and convenience—to local pizza lovers. Two additional locations are set to follow soon after in the neighborhoods of Jebel Ali and Al Ghadeer, further expanding Little Caesars footprint across the UAE.

Little Caesars entry into Dubai marks a significant step in the brand’s global growth journey, introducing its signature menu and unmatched value to a new community of pizza lovers. The opening of the first Dubai location sets the stage for continued expansion across the region.

“Launching in Dubai marks an exciting milestone for Little Caesars as we continue expanding worldwide,” said Paula Vissing, President, Global Retail. “We’re thrilled to introduce pizza lovers in the UAE to our delicious offerings made with fresh ingredients and incredible value. With prices starting at just 24 AED for our large Classic Pizzas—including Pepperoni, Veggie, and Cheese—we’re bringing unbeatable affordability to a market known for its dynamic food scene. With Dubai’s rapid growth and diverse, vibrant population, we’re excited to serve this thriving community and become part of its culinary landscape.”

Little Caesars is excited to introduce its legendary pizza to Dubai, bringing a new option for those seeking delicious, high-quality food at a great price. To mark its entry into the UAE, the brand has crafted a menu designed with local preferences in mind, merging its global favorites with flavors that reflect the region’s diverse culinary tastes. With an emphasis on freshness, flavor, and everyday convenience, Little Caesars aims to become a staple for pizza fans across the city. As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for culture and cuisine, Little Caesars is proud to offer a bold, value-driven choice for residents and visitors alike.

Little Caesars expansion into the United Arab Emirates is made possible through its relationship with Almutairi Restaurants Group the exclusive franchisee for the UAE market. Almutairi Restaurants is an experienced franchisee group with a strong track record, already operating multiple Little Caesars locations in Kuwait under Las Palmas Restaurant Co. This trusted relationship ensures the brand’s commitment to quality, value, and service will be carried forward in Dubai, while adapting thoughtfully to the preferences of the local community.

“We’re proud to bring Little Caesars to Dubai and introduce its world-famous pizza to this dynamic and diverse city,” said Abdulmohsan Al Mutairi, CEO Almutairi Restaurants Group  “Our experience in Kuwait has shown us the strong demand for high-quality, affordable pizza, and we’re excited to now serve the growing community in Dubai with that same passion and dedication.”

With deep regional expertise and a focus on operational excellence, Almutairi Restaurants Group is well-positioned to grow the Little Caesars brand across the UAE and deliver a fresh, exciting pizza experience to new guests.

Little Caesars debut in Dubai marks another exciting step in the brand’s ongoing global expansion, following the recent opening in Delhi NCR, India, earlier this month. As the brand grows its presence across the region, it remains committed to offering communities a flavorful, affordable dining experience that fits into their busy lifestyles. With its entry into the UAE, Little Caesars continues to build on its momentum, bringing its signature pizza to even more pizza lovers around the world.

Detroit Tigers Set for Comerica Park 25th Anniversary Celebration, Presented by Comerica Bank, as Part of Six-Game Homestand Against Tampa Bay Rays and Seattle Mariners from July 7-13

July 6, 2025

• Comerica Park 25th Anniversary Celebration, presented by Comerica Bank, features nostalgic food & beverage options, specialty retail items and more to pay homage to a quarter century of moments and memories at Comerica Park
• “Friday Night Party in the Park,” presented by Casamigos, on July 11 features pregame entertainment, specialty cocktails and a postgame concert by award-winning country music singer/songwriter Jordan Davis
Giveaways on Saturdays includes a Comerica Park Stadium Replica, presented by Comerica Bank, on July 12
• Homestand also features Western Michigan University Night on July 8, Saginaw Valley State University Day on July 12 and Boy Scout Day on July 13, before MLB All-Star break begins July 14

The American League-leading Detroit Tigers will wrap up the unofficial first half of the 2025 campaign at Comerica Park from July 7-13 with a six-game homestand against the Tampa Bay Rays and Seattle Mariners, which includes the Comerica Park 25th Anniversary Celebration, presented by Comerica Bank, from July 11-13.

For 25 years, Comerica Park has been home to some truly memorable chapters in Tigers baseball history. The Tigers are celebrating this milestone by acknowledging the defining plays, achievements and loyal fans who shaped the storied history of Comerica Park. As the Tigers honor the past, they look forward to building on this legacy in the seasons ahead.

Nostalgic food & beverage items will be available throughout the 25th Anniversary Celebration Marquee Weekend, paying homage to a quarter century of moments and memories at Comerica Park, including Coney Pizza, a Souvenir Commemorative Cup, an “Ode to Detroit” Dog (half-pound footlong hot dog, served on a hoagie roll with three sections highlighting flavors significant to Detroit including Mexican, Polish and Coney). Fans can also enjoy Comerica Park “Throwbacks” including jumbo turkey legs, the Notorious PIG pulled pork sandwich, bacon on a stick and more.

Specialty retail items include an exclusive Stadium Collection from Greyson Clothiers, Comerica Park Homage Tees, 47 Headwear and Commemorative Pins, available at The D Shop, presented by Meijer, and other select retail locations throughout the ballpark. Comerica Park Commemorative Puzzles are complimentary with a D Shop purchase of $100 or more, while supplies last.

Throughout the weekend, fans can visit a Rebel Nell concourse activation to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake using material from the Tigers’ Home Dugout. Choose from a necklace, bracelet or a limited-edition commemorative pin, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Detroit Tigers Foundation.

More information for the Comerica Park 25th Anniversary Celebration is available at Tigers.com/25thAnniversary.

Single-game tickets for the upcoming homestand are available at Tigers.com/Tickets, and special ticket packages are available at Tigers.com/SpecialTicket.

Monday, July 7 at 6:40 p.m. vs. Tampa Bay Rays

The Tigers return home to Comerica Park for the first time in eight days as they open a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Comerica Park gates open at 5 p.m.

Tuesday, July 8 at 6:40 p.m. vs. Tampa Bay Rays

313 Value Game, presented by Pepsi, and Western Michigan University Night

Every Tuesday home game is a “313 Value Game,” presented by Pepsi, with $19 lower-level tickets available, as well as $3 bottled water and fountain drinks, $1 chips and $3 hot dogs. 

July 8 is also Western Michigan University Night at Comerica Park, and fans who purchased the sold-out special ticket package receive a custom co-branded WMU snapback hat.

Gates open at 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 9 at 1:10 p.m. vs. Tampa Bay Rays

Don’t miss the series finale on July 9 as the Tigers host the Rays in a matinee matchup at Comerica Park in the penultimate series before the MLB All-Star Break.

Gates open at 11:30 a.m.

Friday, July 11 at 7:10 p.m. vs. Seattle Mariners

Friday Night Party in the Park, presented by Casamigos, and Postgame Concert by Jordan Davis

Every Friday home game is a “Friday Night Party in the Park,” presented by Casamigos, featuring live music and entertainment and pregame food and beverage specials on the Comerica Landing. This Friday Night Party in Park’s specialty cocktail is a “Moscatorita” served with Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Lime Juice, Triple Sec, Muddled Strawberries and Moscato.

Friday Night Party in the Park concludes with a postgame concert by award-winning country music singer/songwriter Jordan Davis. Fans with game tickets can stay in their seat for the concert — or upgrade with a limited number of VIP passes available for purchase. VIP packages offer premium field access for the concert and a game ticket. For more information, fans can visit Tigers.com/JordanDavis.

Every Friday is City Connect Friday, featuring the Tigers’ “Motor City” uniforms. Fans can purchase City Connect merchandise at The D Shop, presented by Meijer, and online. Fans who purchase a special ticket package for July 11 receive a City Connect hat.

On Fridays, all City Connect merchandise is 30% off at The D Shop. On non-game days, free 30-minute parking for The D Shop is available in the Tiger Garage, at 128 Fisher Service Drive, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 12 at 1:10 p.m. vs. Seattle Mariners

Comerica Park Stadium Replica Giveaway, presented by Comerica Bank, and Saginaw Valley State University Day

Every Saturday home game includes an exciting giveaway for early arriving fans at Comerica Park. As part of the 25th Anniversary Celebration, the July 12 giveaway is a Comerica Park Stadium Replica, presented by Comerica Bank. Some lucky fans will receive an autographed replica from current players, alumni, local artists or musicians. Plus, limited-edition Silver Replicas will be given to 25 lucky fans at the gates.

July 12 is also Saginaw Valley State University Day, and fans who purchased the sold-out special ticket package receive a custom co-branded SVSU snapback cap.

Gates open at 11:30 a.m.

Sunday, July 13 at 1:40 p.m. vs. Seattle Mariners

Chevy Sunday Kids Day and Boy Scout Day

Every Sunday home game is a Chevy Sunday Kids Day, where young fans can enjoy pregame autographs on the concourse, run the bases postgame and enjoy free rides on the Hi-Chew Ferris Wheel and Carousel throughout the day.

July 13 is also Boy Scout Day, and fans who purchase a special ticket package receive a custom Boy Scout-themed bucket hat.

The Meijer Sunday Family Value Deal is available, starting at $79, including four upper-level tickets, four hot dogs, four bags of chips and four fountain drinks. The lower-level ticket package starts at $99. Fans can also upgrade either package with four slices of pizza and four fountain drinks for just $10 more.

Gates open at 12 p.m.

Group Ticket Options

Fans interested in purchasing 10 or more tickets during the upcoming homestand can visit Tigers.com/Groups or email Groups@Tigers.com.

Red Wings Sign Mason Appleton to Two-Year Contract

July 5, 2025

Michigan State University Product Has Skated in 400 Games with Winnipeg Jets and Seattle Kraken Since 2018-19

The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward Mason Appleton to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $2.9 million.

Appleton, 29, spent the 2024-25 season with the Winnipeg Jets, recording 22 points (10-12-22), a plus-seven rating and 22 penalty minutes in 71 regular-season games. The 6-foot-2, 194-pound forward also finished with seven assists and 14 penalty minutes in 13 Stanley Cup Playoff games. Appleton played the 2023-24 season with the Jets and set career highs in games played (82), goals (14), assists (22), points (36), plus/minus (+16), power play goals (2), shots (122), hits (107), blocks (44) and average time on ice (16:03). He also registered two assists and six penalty minutes in five postseason contests. Originally selected by Winnipeg in the sixth round (168th overall) of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Appleton has collected 138 points (57-81-138), a plus-35 rating and 124 penalty minutes in 400 games with the Jets and Seattle Kraken since 2018-19. Appleton also tallied 99 points (37-62-99), a plus-five rating and 81 penalty minutes in 120 games with the American Hockey League’s Manitoba Moose from 2017-20, earning a place on the AHL’s First All-Star Team and All-Rookie Team in 2017-18. He was named the recipient of the 2017-18 Dudley “Red” Garrett Memorial Award as the AHL’s most outstanding rookie after leading all freshmen in assists (44) and points (66) in 76 games.

Prior to turning professional, Appleton played two seasons at Michigan State University from 2015-17, where he recorded 53 points (17-36-53) and 69 penalty minutes in 72 games. Appleton led the Spartans in goals (12), assists (19) and points (31) in 35 games as a sophomore in 2016-17. He spent the entire 2014-15 campaign with the Tri-City Storm in the United States Hockey League, tallying 40 points (12-28-40) and 84 penalty minutes in 54 regular-season games, in addition to eight points (4-4-8) and 12 penalty minutes in seven postseason matchups. Appleton played three seasons at Notre Dame Academy in his hometown of Green Bay, Wis., from 2011-14, compiling 138 points (51-87-138) and 40 penalty minutes in 70 regular-season games, along with 24 points (11-13-24) and 14 penalty minutes in 16 playoff matchups. Appleton was a three-time All-State selection at Notre Dame Academy and scored the game-winning goal in overtime in the 2012 WIAA State Championship game. Appleton transferred to Notre Dame Academy after spending his freshman campaign at Ashwaubenon (Wis.) High School in 2010-11, picking up 38 points (15-23-38) and 12 penalty minutes in 23 regular-season games before adding seven points (2-5-7) in three playoff games.

Red Wings Mourn the Passing of Franchise Icon and Hall of Famer Alex Delvecchio

July 2, 2025

Former center, Head Coach and General Manager’s Detroit legacy will be forever remembered

Synonymous with Hockeytown and one of the most distinguished figures in Detroit Red Wings franchise history, Alexander (Alex) Peter Delvecchio passed away at the age of 93 on Tuesday, July 1, leaving behind an impeccable legacy of character, dedication, and humility both on and off the ice.

The Hall of Famer and three-time Stanley Cup champion made an indelible mark on the Red Wings organization throughout his 27-year career, starting first as a premier center and eventual captain of the team before becoming the franchise’s Head Coach and General Manager.

“I am honored to have known our dear friend and Red Wings legend, Alex Delvecchio,” said Marian Ilitch. “Alex was a cherished part of the Red Wings family, and I’m grateful for the years my husband Mike and I shared with him, as well as the remarkable legacy he leaves behind—both in the rafters of the arena and in the hearts of Red Wings fans everywhere. My heartfelt condolences go out to the Delvecchio family during this time of loss.”

“The Detroit Red Wings organization is deeply saddened by the passing of Alex Delvecchio – a true Red Wings great whose contributions to our team, our city, and the game of hockey will never be forgotten,” said Detroit Red Wings Governor and CEO, Chris Ilitch. “Alex embodied what it means to be a Red Wing: loyalty, humility, and excellence on and off the ice. For over two decades, including 12 as captain of the Red Wings, Alex earned the reputation as one of the best two-way forwards in NHL history. Following his Hall of Fame career, he continued to represent the Red Wings with class and distinction as both an executive and ambassador. Our thoughts are with the Delvecchio family and all those who were fortunate enough to know and admire Alex. His legacy will forever be remembered as part of Red Wings history and Hockeytown.”

Born on Dec. 4, 1931, in Fort William, Ontario, Delvecchio played minor hockey in his hometown before beginning his professional hockey career with the Ontario Hockey League’s Oshawa Generals, with whom he suited up for during the 1950-51 season. After making his NHL debut with Detroit on March 25, 1951, Delvecchio embarked on an impressive 24-year NHL playing career, all with the Red Wings, helping them capture three Stanley Cup championships (1952, 1954, 1955).

Known as a two-way forward with an impressive offensive skillset, Delvecchio finished among the top 10 scorers in the NHL 10 times in 14 seasons from 1955-56 to 1968-69. That 1968-69 season, one of the very best of his career with 58 assists and 25 goals, also saw the star forward become just the third NHL player to score 1,000 points, joining both Gordie Howe and Jean Beliveau.

Delvecchio, who centered Detroit’s famous “Production Line” between fellow Red Wings legends Ted Lindsay and Gordie Howe, retired from the NHL on Nov. 7, 1973. At the time of his retirement, Delvecchio ranked second in franchise history for games played (1,550), goals (456), assists (825), points (1,281), power-play goals (111), power-play points (376), short-handed goals (15), game-winning goals (75) and shots (3,129).

The Winged Wheel remained a major part of Delvecchio’s life following his playing career, as he went on to coach the Red Wings for four seasons (1973-77) and was named General Manager in 1974, serving in both roles until 1977. That same year, Delvecchio was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame and entered the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame.

As the owner of some of the biggest moments in Red Wings history, including a two-goal performance in Game 7 of the 1955 Stanley Cup Final and seven goals in Detroit’s 1956 Stanley Cup run, Delvecchio, in addition to being named one of the NHL’s 100 Greatest NHL Players as part of the League’s year-long centennial celebration, has his No. 10 jersey hanging in the rafters and a bronze statue on the Via concourse of Little Caesars Arena.

But Delvecchio did more than just lace up his skates for Detroit, which he proudly represented at 13 NHL All-Star Games during his career. He embraced his teammates, the community and Hockeytown faithful. A three-time Lady Byng Memorial Trophy winner (1959, 1966, 1969) and finalist on several other occasions, Delvecchio represented everything good about the game of hockey.

Delvecchio is survived by his wife Judy and their five children, 10 grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Red Wings Sign John Leonard to One-Year Contract

July 2, 2025

Forward Scored 36 Goals in 72 Games with AHL’s Charlotte Checkers in 2024-25

The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward John Leonard to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $775,000.

Leonard, 26, spent the 2024-25 season with the American Hockey League’s Charlotte Checkers and ranked among the team leaders with 36 goals (1st), 25 assists (3th), 61 points (1st), a plus-21 rating (3rd), 10 power play goals (1st), 24 power play points (2nd), five shorthanded goals (1st), eight game-winning goals (1st), two overtime goals (T1st) and 252 shots (1st) in 72 regular-season games. The 5-foot-11, 196-pound forward represented the Checkers at the 2025 AHL All-Star Classic and earned a place on the AHL’s Second All-Star Team. Leonard also recorded 14 points (8-6-14) and 18 penalty minutes in 18 postseason contests, helping the Checkers reach the Calder Cup Finals. Leonard split the 2023-24 campaign between the Arizona Coyotes and AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners, netting one goal in six appearances with the Coyotes. He also tallied 32 points (12-20-32) and 24 penalty minutes in 63 games with the Roadrunners in 2023-24. Originally selected by the San Jose Sharks in the sixth round (182nd overall) of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, Leonard has registered 17 points (6-11-17) and four penalty minutes in 70 games with the Sharks, Nashville Predators and Coyotes since 2020-21. Leonard has also compiled 171 points (83-88-171) and 66 penalty minutes in 249 AHL games with the San Jose Barracuda, Milwaukee Admirals, Roadrunners and Checkers. He is the older brother of Ryan Leonard, who was selected by the Washington Capitals in the first round (8th overall) of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.

A native of Wildwood, N.J., Leonard played three seasons at the University of Massachusetts prior to turning professional, recording 105 points (56-49-105), a plus-30 rating and 42 penalty minutes in 106 games from 2017-20. Leonard earned First Team All-American and All-Hockey East First Team honors after leading the NCAA with 27 goals in 33 games as a junior in 2019-20. He was also named to the All-Hockey East Second Team as a sophomore after helping the Minutemen win a Hockey East regular-season championship in 2018-19. Leonard spent two seasons with the Green Bay Gamblers in the United States Hockey League from 2015-17, logging 43 points (24-19-43), a plus-four rating and 30 penalty minutes in 106 games. Additionally, Leonard played three seasons at Springfield (Mass.) Cathedral High from 2012-15, totaling 151 points (91-60-151) in 72 games. On the international stage, Leonard represented Team USA at the 2015 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, finishing with two points (1-1-2) in four games.

Red Wings Sign James Van Riemsdyk to One-Year Contract

July 2, 2025

16-Year NHL Veteran Has Recorded 665 Points in 1,082 Games with Flyers, Maple Leafs, Bruins and Blue Jackets Since 2009-10

The Detroit Red Wings have signed forward James van Riemsdyk to a one-year contract with a cap hit of $1 million.

Van Riemsdyk, 36, skated in 71 games with the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2024-25 season and ranked among the team leaders with 16 goals (8th), 20 assists (9th), 36 points (7th), two game-winning goals (T6th) and an 18.8 shooting percentage (2nd). The 6-foot-3, 209-pound forward played in his NHL-record eighth career outdoor game at the 2025 Stadium Series on March 1 at Ohio Stadium. Van Riemsdyk spent the 2023-24 campaign with the Boston Bruins, recording 38 points (11-27-38), a plus-seven rating and 20 penalty minutes in 71 regular-season games, in addition to five points (1-4-5) in 11 Stanley Cup Playoff games. Originally selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the first round (2nd overall) of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, van Riemsdyk has compiled 665 points (327-338-665) and 417 penalty minutes in 1,082 games with the Flyers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Bruins and Blue Jackets since 2009-10. He has also produced 36 points (21-15-36) and 22 penalty minutes in 82 postseason games, helping the Flyers reach the 2010 Stanley Cup Final. Van Riemsdyk made his professional debut with the American Hockey League’s Philadelphia Phantoms in 2008-09, logging two points (1-1-2), a plus-two rating and two penalty minutes in seven regular-season games before skating in four Calder Cup Playoff contests.

Prior to turning professional, van Riemsdyk played two seasons at the University of New Hampshire from 2007-09, racking up 74 points (28-46-74), a plus-28 rating and 89 penalty minutes in 67 games. Van Riemsdyk earned a place on the All-Hockey East Second Team as a sophomore after tallying 40 points (17-23-40), a plus-15 rating and 47 penalty minutes in 36 games during the 2008-09 season. He was also selected to the Pro Ambitions All-Rookie Team after helping the Wildcats win a Hockey East regular-season championship in 2007-08. The Middletown, N.J., native skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program from 2005-07. On the international stage, van Riemsdyk has played with Team USA at two IIHF World Championships (2011, 2019), combining for six points (3-3-6) in 10 games. He also represented his country at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, picking up one assist in three appearances. Van Riemsdyk competed with Team USA at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, where he recorded seven points (1-6-7), a plus-seven rating and two penalty minutes in six games. He skated with Team USA at three-consecutive IIHF World Junior Championships from 2007-09, winning a bronze medal at the 2007 tournament. Additionally, van Riemsdyk played in back-to-back IIHF World Under-18 Championships from 2006-07, capturing a gold medal in 2006 along with a silver medal and Most Valuable Player honors in 2007.

Red Wings Re-Sign Elmer Söderblom to Two-Year Contract

July 2, 2025

6-Foot-8 Forward Has Recorded 19 Points in 47 Games with Detroit Since 2022-23

The Detroit Red Wings today re-signed forward Elmer Söderblom to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $1.125 million.

Söderblom, 23, played in 26 games with the Red Wings during the 2024-25 season, recording 11 points (4-7-11), a plus-two rating, six penalty minutes, 38 shots and 43 hits in 13:22 average time on ice. The 6-foot-8, 246-pound forward also logged 17 points (5-12-17), a plus-four rating and 29 penalty minutes in 38 regular-season games with the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins in 2024-25. Söderblom spent the entire 2023-24 campaign with the Griffins, setting career highs in games played (61), goals (13), assists (16), points (29), power play goals (3), game-winning goals (3) and shots (114). He also registered two points (1-1-2) in seven Calder Cup Playoff games, helping the Griffins reach the Central Division Finals. Selected by the Red Wings in the sixth round (159th overall) of the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Söderblom has tallied 19 points (9-10-19), a plus-two rating and 14 penalty minutes in 47 NHL games since 2022-23. Söderblom has also compiled 54 points (23-31-54), a plus-two rating and 47 penalty minutes in 119 AHL games with the Griffins.

Prior to arriving in North America, Söderblom played in parts of three seasons in the Swedish Hockey League with Frölunda HC, based out of his hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden. Söderblom totaled 38 points (24-14-38) and 14 penalty minutes in 90 games in Sweden’s top professional league from 2019-22. He helped Frölunda HC win a Champions Hockey League title in 2020. Söderblom also recorded 76 points (40-36-76) and 22 penalty minutes in 87 games with Frölunda HC’s under-20 squad, in addition to 53 points (26-27-53) and 14 penalty minutes in 60 games with the under-18 team and 93 points (62-31-93) and 49 penalty minutes in 78 games at the under-16 level. On the international stage, Söderblom represented Sweden at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship along with Red Wings teammates Lucas Raymond and Albert Johansson, collecting three points (2-1-3) in five games. Söderblom won a gold medal with Sweden at the 2019 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, netting one goal in seven appearances. He also captured a silver medal at the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, finishing with three points (1-2-3) in five contests.