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Holland on Abdelkader extension: ‘It’s hard to find big people that can score 20 goals’

Justin Abdelkader

Justin Abdelkader

AP

The Red Wings made it official today, announcing they’ve signed forward Justin Abdelkader to a seven-year contract extension.

It was reported yesterday that the two sides were closing in on a deal.

Abdelkader will make $29.75 million over those seven years, garnering a cap hit of $4.25 million.

It’s a lengthy commitment by the Wings to the 28-year-old, who’s only had one NHL season with more than 10 goals. He tallied 23 last year.

Wings GM Ken Holland thinks the contract is justified.

“He’s 28 years of age and if he hit the open market, and a team wanted to pry him out of Detroit -- it’s hard to find big people that can score 20 goals,” Holland told the Detroit Free Press.

Abdelkader has four goals in 15 games this season, putting him on pace to score around 20.