Daniel-Cleary-11-9-13

Red Wings forward Daniel Cleary will have a roster spot but he realizes he must earn his place in the lineup.

(The Associated Press)

DETROIT – Daniel Cleary experienced by far the toughest of his nine seasons as a Detroit Red Wing in 2013-14.

A rough first half was compounded by a knee issue that ended his season in late January.

Cleary, 35, is confident he still can be an effective player and said he is determined to have a "bounce-back" season after signing a one-year, $1.5 million extension with the Red Wings.

"Super-happy to be back," Cleary said Thursday. "Last year was a tough year. Overall disappointment.

"It's going to take hard work and dedication. That's my goal. I'm confident."

He is encouraged with how his knee responded this week when he began skating for the first time in three months.

"My knee has been bad for three years, a lot of wear and tear," Cleary said. "Had a rough start (last season), then had a reaction to the Synvisc (lubricant injection) and it got blown up, swollen, and the season was over.

"It's a lot stronger, a lot better."

Cleary, who can earn up to $1 million in bonuses, will have a roster spot. But after finishing with just eight points (four goals, four assists) in 52 games, he must earn a spot in the lineup. The Red Wings will carry 14 forwards.

"It's a competition," Cleary said. "I'm going to go in with an open mind, work hard on and off the ice and see where the chips fall. If I'm strong and healthy, things will work out."

Cleary is aware that his return has been met with harsh criticism by many fans.

"Everybody is entitled to their opinion," Cleary said. "You try not to let any of the negativity – or the positive comments – affect you. We live in the day of social media; anyone can say anything. You can't worry about what people think. You got to do what you do."

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