Griffins Sign Marc McNulty

Defenseman Marc McNulty, the Red Wings 2013 6th round draft pick, has signed an amateur tryout with the Grand Rapids Griffins. McNulty’s Prince George Cougars missed the WHL playoffs this year, so he’ll join the Griffins and get a little taste of the AHL. Since he was just drafted last spring he doesn’t have contract yet, which is why the Griffins signed him to an ATO. In 67 games this season McNulty had 17 goals, including 10 PP goals, and 42 points to lead all defensemen on his team in both goals and points by quite a bit, the next closest D-man had 16 points and 5 goals. Even more impressive is the fact that he led all defensemen in the WHL in goals and was 4th among defensemen in points

Career Stats:

He probably won’t play in many, if any, games for the Griffins unless they experience more defense injuries, but just being able to practice with the team, get to know the system, and start to get a feel for what it’s like in the AHL will be a great learning experience.

The 6’6″ 193 pound lanky 18 year old is a 2-way defenseman with an impressive wingspan, good mobility, above average puck handling skills, and can quarterback the power play. He’s not projected to be a superstar player as reflected by the fact that he was taken in the 6th round but he has some intriguing upside and has developed an impressive offensive game.

McNulty is the first draft pick to join the Griffins this year, but he won’t be the last. Zach Nastasiuk and Jake Paterson both saw their teams get eliminated from the playoffs last week, so I think it’s likely we see them joining the Griffins soon as well; especially Paterson who should be with the Griffins full time next season. David Pope’s team was eliminated in the 1st round of the playoffs and I don’t see any reason why he couldn’t also get the benefit of joining the team.

We’ll keep you posted on more prospect movements as they happen.