Marek Zidlicky 3-15-15

Marek Zidlicky gives the Red Wings a different dimension on defense with his right-handed shot.

(The Associated Press)

DETROIT - The Detroit Red Wings had varying degrees of interest in a number of right-handed shooting defensemen, and some lefties, since July.

The one they finally acquired two weeks ago didn't cost them as much as most of the others would have, and is considerably older, but he's already delivered a big return.

Marek Zidlicky has seven points (three goals, four assists) in seven games and has provided a different dimension with his right shot, described as a "bomb" by coach Mike Babcock, and an edge to his game.

"He can flat-out just shoot the puck, which is great, even to the point where he's got to shoot it more, on the power play especially," Babcock said following Sunday's 5-1 victory at Pittsburgh, after Zidlicky picked up a goal and two assists.

The 38-year-old Zidlicky provides more than just offense. Despite his modest 5-foot-11, 190-pound frame, he brings some abrasiveness.

"He's got some grit to him, he doesn't mind cross-checking the odd guy," Babcock said. "Moves the puck good and he gives us another (defense) pair. Him and (Brendan Smith) are a real good pair for us, which is so important; they move the puck."

The Red Wings know Zidlicky well. They saw him often during his four seasons in Nashville - he tallied career highs in goals (14) and points (53) as a rookie in 2003-04 - and his three-plus seasons in Minnesota.

"He's a real good defenseman and we saw it again today on the power play, how important he is for us," Henrik Zetterberg said. "He always makes the right play. He's so calm. It's fun to play with him."

They dealt a conditional 2016 third-round draft pick (becomes a second-rounder if they reach the Stanley Cup finals) to New Jersey at the March 2 trade deadline to land him. The Devils will get Detroit's 2015 fifth-round pick as well if the Red Wings reach the Eastern Conference finals.

The Red Wings made a pitch for Zidlicky in free agency in 2013, but he re-signed with New Jersey. He waived his no-trade clause to come to Detroit.

"This team has really, really good players and it's comfortable for me, especially on the power play," Zidlicky said.

He said of the power play, which was ranked No. 1 in the NHL before he arrived and continues to hold the top spot: "They've got great skill. It's unbelievable how they handle the puck. They are strong with the puck and strong up front so that makes it easy for me."

With just 11 shots in seven games, Zidlicky will look to shoot more.

"That's what (Babcock) wants," Zidlicky said. "I try shooting much more."

His family remains in New Jersey, where his son is in school and plays hockey.

"It's not easy, especially when you move from family," Zidlicky said. "New system, new team, new rink. Everything is new. The guys help me on and off the ice, so that's good for me."

The Czech native has extensive international experience, having played in the past three Olympics, six World Championships and the 2004 World Cup.

"I saw him with the national team a couple of times so I knew what I can expect from him," goaltender and fellow Czech Petr Mrazek said. "He's a great defenseman and he shoots well and we could see it (Sunday)."

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