The Detroit Red Wings have urgently recalled forwards Dominik Shine and Sheldon Dries from their American Hockey League affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins. This move comes during the 2025-26 season as the team faces immediate roster needs, offering Shine a chance for his continued growth since his NHL debut.
Dominik Shine’s Impactful Performance in the AHL and NHL Experience
Dominik Shine, 32, stands out as a key contributor on the Griffins, having played 37 games this season. His statistics include 21 goals, ranking second on the team, and 15 assists, tied for sixth, combining for 36 points and a plus-24 rating. Shine also features prominently with four power play goals and three game-winning goals. His performance earned him the role of the 19th captain in Griffins’ history on October 9, 2025, and a selection to the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic. Shine first appeared in the NHL during the 2024-25 season with Detroit, appearing in eight games and contributing one assist, along with 15 penalty minutes and significant average ice time per game.
Since signing with Grand Rapids as an undrafted free agent in 2017, Shine has accumulated 220 points and nearly 590 penalty minutes in over 520 AHL contests, demonstrating both scoring ability and physical play. During his collegiate years at Northern Michigan University from 2013 to 2017, Shine registered 97 points and served as alternate captain in his final two years, earning All-WCHA honors for his goal scoring.
A native of Pinckney, Michigan, Shine developed his skills locally, playing for the Little Caesars Amateur Hockey program before launching his junior and professional careers.
Sheldon Dries’ Professional Journey and Contributions to the Griffins
Sheldon Dries, 31, has consistently performed for the Griffins throughout the current season, recording 18 goals and 16 assists in 42 games. He leads the team in power play goals with seven and ranks highly in multiple offensive categories. Dries played the full 2024-25 season with Grand Rapids, tallying 40 points in 65 games while contributing cautiously disciplined play with 35 penalty minutes. He has extensive NHL experience, having played 122 games with the Colorado Avalanche and Vancouver Canucks, amassing 26 points during his time at the top level.
Dries’ AHL history is extensive, with 278 points and a positive plus-46 rating across several teams, including the Texas Stars, Colorado Eagles, Abbotsford Canucks, and the Griffins. Before turning professional, Dries was a prominent figure at Western Michigan University, where he served as captain for three seasons and earned a spot on the NCHC’s Second All-Star Team.
Originating from Macomb, Michigan, Dries also achieved international success with Team USA, winning gold at the 2012 World Junior A Challenge. His junior career included a Clark Cup championship with the Green Bay Gamblers in the USHL.
Context and Significance of the Emergency Recalls
These recalls highlight the Red Wings’ reliance on experienced forwards like Shine and Dries as they navigate roster challenges in the 2025-26 season. Shine’s NHL debut and steady rise through the AHL ranks underscore his resilience and potential impact at the NHL level. Meanwhile, Dries’ blend of NHL experience and strong AHL performance provides Detroit with depth and dependable leadership on the ice.
Moving forward, the Red Wings will look to leverage the skill sets and leadership qualities of both players as they aim to strengthen their lineup. The emergency call-ups may offer opportunities for Shine to further establish himself in the NHL and for Dries to continue supporting the team’s competitive objectives, both in Detroit and with the Griffins. Their performances could influence roster decisions and provide valuable momentum as the team pursues success in the current campaign.
