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Alumni Watch: Darren McCarty Moves One Step Closer to NHL Comeback
 Former Belleville Bulls star Darren McCarty moved closer to completing an impressive NHL comeback on Monday when he signed a one year contract with the Detroit Red Wings. The Red Wings then assigned him to the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins for a two week conditioning stint.
It had appeared to most that McCarty’s playing career was over following an injury plagued 2006-2007 season in which he played just 32 games with the Calgary Flames, recording no points and 58 penalty minutes. He then began his comeback attempt this past January when he signed with the IHL’s Flint Generals. McCarty quickly showed he could still play, recording three goals and six points in 11 games, earning himself a tryout contract with the Griffins.
McCarty made his debut with the Griffins on February 8, and has made an immediate impact, scoring four goals and three assists while adding 19 penalty minutes in just nine games. His best game on the season came February 15th when he scored three times and added an assist, as he was named first star in a Griffins victory. Four nights later, he was named first star of the game in another Grand Rapids victory.
McCarty is no stranger to the Red Wings franchise having played 11 seasons in Detroit from 1993-2004 where he won three Stanley Cups. ''Darren has earned this opportunity,'' said Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland. ''He's made great strides in the past several months and we wanted to give him the chance to continue in hopes he can contribute to the Red Wings once again.''
Darren spent three seasons in Belleville from 1989-1992 and served as team captain during the 1991-1992 season. In 188 regular season games played with Bulls, McCarty recorded 97 goals and 221 points while also accumulating 470 penalty minutes. His ability to score, hit, fight, and lead endured him to Bulls fans and he still remains one of the most popular players in team history.
Fans should also note that limited edition Darren McCarty bobbleheads are still available at the Bulls Store.
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