DETROIT -- Daniel Larsson couldn't envision his career advancing much in the Detroit Red Wings' system, not with Jimmy Howard having emerged as their starting goaltender and Thomas McCollum pegged as their goalie of the future.

So after two seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins, the 24-year-old Larsson has signed a two-year contract with HV-71, the reigning champions of the Swedish Elite League.

Larsson told Swedish media that the contract includes an out clause after one year and that his goal remains to play in the NHL.

"They wanted me in the AHL (for) at least another year, but I felt that the two seasons was enough,'' Larsson told

. "NHL is still my ultimate goal. I think this is the best way to get there.''

Larsson had a chance to be the Red Wings' backup to Howard in 2011-12 because Chris Osgood is expected to retire after next season. The Red Wings retain Larsson's NHL rights for three more seasons, until he turns 27, and general manager Ken Holland said he would welcome him back if he looks NHL-ready.

Larsson is a restricted free agent who will earn much more in Sweden than he would have playing for the Griffins (roughly $100,000).

Detroit's third-round pick (92nd overall) in the 2006 entry draft, Larsson played well in his first AHL season, going 22-12-2, with a 2.76 goals-against average and five shutouts while splitting time with Howard.

Larsson wasn't as sharp in 2009-10 (23-24-2, 2.85 GAA, one shutout), but neither was the team around him.

Holland said the Red Wings will look to sign a veteran goalie, someone who will provide depth and compete for playing time with McCollum in Grand Rapids. Jordan Pearce also will compete for a job with the Griffins.

"Larsson's season was inconsistent,'' Holland said. "He played well for stretches. When Larsson faltered, McCollum wasn't able to pick the team up.''

The 20-year-old McCollum, the club's first-round pick in 2008 (30th overall), went 10-16-2 with a 3.48 GAA and .881 save percentage for the Griffins.

"His first year was a struggle at times, but you're best off to deal with adversity early in your career. It sends a message,'' Holland said. "We're very high on Thomas McCollum, but next year is very important for him. Our philosophy is you earn your ice time. If McCollum struggles, it's someone else's job.''

No decision yet on Maltby

Holland said he likely will wait until mid-June before deciding whether to offer a contract to forward Kirk Maltby, 37.

Holland said much will depend on what happens with the club's other free agents and whether the team has a roster spot and salary-cap space. Maltby underwent season-ending shoulder surgery March 2.

"I like him as a player and a person. I thought he played well at the start of the season,'' Holland said. "He's a winner, a team player. But at the same time, we have to evaluate the young people in the organization and our cap situation.''

The Red Wings are certain to re-sign Tomas Holmstrom and likely will re-sign Todd Bertuzzi.

and is expected to re-sign its remaining restricted free-agent forwards: Darren Helm, Justin Abdelkader, Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller.

None of those deals are imminent, however.