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The Captain Returns
Longtime Griffin Matt Ellis Back In the Fold...
By Jason Kasiorek
www.griffinscentral.com

Matt Ellis has made a career out of beating the odds. Starting when he garnered a contract out of the OHL as an undrafted free agent with the Wings, through his first campaign in the ECHL, and on into his phenomenal development in the AHL, he has made believers out of his detractors. Last season he realized a dream by making his NHL debut and it looks like his hard work has not gone unnoticed. The parent Detroit Red Wings have signed the Griffins captain to a one-year contract to remain with the organization.

Where he winds up next season, though, is anyone's guess. The hard working Ellis is a darkhorse to make the Wings this season, but with his work ethic and hustle, he could force the club to keep him. Subject to waivers if assigned to the AHL, he may impress another club enough to claim him for their NHL roster. Of course a return to Grand Rapids for a fifth season is a welcome possibility as well. Matt was the team's leading goal scorer in 2006-07 with 26 and has posted 69 goals, 84 assists and 153 points in 282 games as a Griffin.