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Dennis Cholowski skates with St. Cloud State earlier this season.

(Tom Nelson | St. Cloud State)

Dennis Cholowski, the Detroit Red Wings top pick in the 2016 entry draft, is expected to join the Grand Rapids Griffins today, assistant general manager Ryan Martin said.

The 19-year-old, the 20th overall pick who signed a three-year entry-level contract earlier this week, will remain with the Griffins throughout the regular season and playoffs, though whether or not he plays will be up to coach Todd Nelson.

The Griffins currently have eight defensemen on the roster, and it will grow again on Monday when Robbie Russo returns from the Red Wings.

The other option was for Cholowski to play in the WHL, but Prince George, which owns his rights, is done for the season.

Cholowski will practice with the Griffins and experience the postseason most likely as member of the team's black aces.

Cholowski played 36 games as a freshman for St. Cloud State University this season. He had one goal, 11 assists and 14 penalty minutes.

The Griffins practiced Friday ahead of a home game Saturday against Cleveland. They turn around and play at Cleveland on Sunday.