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Justin Abdelkader Hopes Red Wings Deal Comes Before NHL Lockout

Detroit Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader hopes to sign his free-agent contract in the coming days.

EDMONTON CANADA - NOVEMBER 5: Justin Abdelkader #8 of the Detroit Red Wings scores in first-period action at Rexall Place November 5 2010 in Edmonton Alberta Canada. (Photo by Dale MacMillan/Getty Images)
EDMONTON CANADA - NOVEMBER 5: Justin Abdelkader #8 of the Detroit Red Wings scores in first-period action at Rexall Place November 5 2010 in Edmonton Alberta Canada. (Photo by Dale MacMillan/Getty Images)
EDMONTON CANADA - NOVEMBER 5: Justin Abdelkader #8 of the Detroit Red Wings scores in first-period action at Rexall Place November 5 2010 in Edmonton Alberta Canada. (Photo by Dale MacMillan/Getty Images)
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It would be in Detroit Red Wings forward Justin Abdelkader's best interests to get his free-agent deal signed with the team as soon as possible, or at least before Saturday.

The NHL lockout looms, but Abdelkader is close to re-signing with the club and securing his financial future.

The Detroit Free Press reports that Abdelkader would like to get his contract signed by Saturday’s expiration of the NHL collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players association.

“We’re hoping to get something done before the 15th,” he said.

If the lockout happens and lasts a months, Abdelkader might have the option to play in Europe. But he’s not sure about that.

Abdelkader, 25, had eight goals and 14 assists in 81 games for the Red Wings in 2011-2012. He’s heading into his third full season with Detroit, his home state team.

Be sure to stay with this StoryStream for more Wings free agency coverage, and head over to Winging It In Motown for more Red Wings news. Also visit SB Nation’s NHL hub for more coverage from around the league.

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