After nine years with the AHL’s Griffins, the Michigan native finally gets his chance at the NHL level.
The Detroit Red Wings took an important step on Monday by signing veteran forward Dominik Shine to a two-year contract, extending through the remainder of this season and the 2025-26 campaign. This signing marks Shine’s first official NHL contract, rewarding the 31-year-old player for his perseverance and impressive play during his nine seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins, the Red Wings’ AHL affiliate.
Shine’s career has seen him climb through the ranks, starting from his time with the Lincoln Stars in the USHL to becoming one of the Griffins’ key players. With 11 goals and 32 points in just 40 games, this season has proven to be the highlight of his career, bringing his total career AHL tally to 72 goals and 170 points across 462 games. Shine is not only third on the Griffins’ all-time goals list but has also become more of an offensive threat, showcasing not just grit, but skill on the ice.
Shine’s signing coincides with injury issues for the Red Wings, especially as they confirmed recently injured right wing Patrick Kane, who has been placed on injured reserve retroactive to January 21. Another forward, J.T. Compher, is also recovering from an upper-body injury. These circumstances have opened the door for Shine, who has shown readiness and capability to step up during this challenging time.
The announcement came as the Red Wings prepare to face the Los Angeles Kings. Coach Derek Lalonde mentioned the necessity of depth and adaptability amid several injuries, highlighting the need to call on players like Shine. “You want to have players ready who can make the most of their chance when called upon,” Lalonde told reporters.
The announcement came as the Red Wings prepare to face the Los Angeles Kings. Coach Derek Lalonde mentioned the necessity of depth and adaptability amid several injuries, highlighting the need to call on players like Shine. “You want to have players ready who can make the most of their chance when called upon,” Lalonde told reporters.
Shine, hailing from Pinckney, Michigan, has built his reputation within the Griffins not only through scoring but through sheer hard work. This season marks his eighth with the organization, where he has become one of the fan favorites due to his tenacity, experience, and leadership qualities. His dedication to the sport is evident; he even reached career highs with power-play goals (4), game-winners (3), and multi-point outings (8) this year alone.
Throughout his time with the Griffins, he has also accumulated considerable penalty minutes (513), proving his willingness to defend his teammates. Shine’s story is inspirational; after spending years developing his craft, he exemplifies the type of dedication it takes to succeed. Fans had long awaited this moment for the well-respected player and now hope to see him make his NHL debut — something he has dreamt about since he first laced up the skates with the Griffins.
Highlighting the significance of this achievement, Shine shared, “Getting this opportunity is surreal. I’ve put my head down and worked for this moment. To finally secure my spot is something I’ve always dreamt about.” His excitement reinforces his commitment to making the most of this opportunity with the Red Wings.
Before his stint with Grand Rapids, Shine spent four successful years at Northern Michigan University, amassing 97 points and earning accolades, including Second and Third Team All-WCHA honors. The Red Wings are now excited about integrating him, and the hope is Shine’s skill set and experience can add much-needed depth as the team fights for its playoff aspirations.
With the Red Wings currently positioned as seventh place in the Atlantic Division and just four points behind the last Wild Card spot, every game is of utmost importance. Shine’s addition has the potential to provide the spark they need, particularly with the AHL’s developmental pipeline continuously feeding promising talent like him to the NHL.
Shine’s story is emblematic of patience and continuous improvement. He has epitomized the organizational belief of hard work paying off, not only establishing himself as one of the best players on the Griffins but now stepping up to fulfill his lifelong dream of playing at the NHL level.
Many are curious to see how soon Shine will hit the ice for the Red Wings, particularly amid the current injury woes. Fans and teammates alike look forward to cheering on one of their own who has finally earned his shot at the big time.
