DETROIT -- After Detroit Red Wings forward Luke Glendening completed his collegiate career at the University of Michigan, he signed with the Providence Bruins and played three games on an amateur tryout in 2012.

“It was a great experience,” he said. “Obviously, coming from college I didn’t really know what to expect of the pro game. I probably would say it wasn’t the best move on my part. I probably wasn’t ready. I probably needed a summer off before, just to prepare for what was coming. But it was a neat experience. I learned a lot. I guess it all worked out in the end.”

Glendening eventually signed with the Red Wings' organization and spent the majority of last season with its AHL affiliate, Grand Rapids Griffins, and was a member of their Calder Cup championship team.

The 24-year-old forward made his NHL debut with the Red Wings this season, and coach Mike Babcock has been impressed with the rookie.

“Luke’s ultra-competitive, a skater, heavy and used to be a football player, so loves the contact and loves being a grease ball. He plays hard, draws other guys into the battle and has a great hockey sense. Very competitive,” Babcock said.

Glendening, who recently signed a three-year contract extension with the Red Wings, scored Detroit’s lone goal in Game 2 against the Bruins.

Overall, he had one goal and six assists for seven points in 56 games for the Red Wings during the regular season.

Bruins rookie forward Justin Florek played with Glendening during his brief stint with the P-Bruins.

“He’s a great two-way player and works hard at both ends of the ice,” Florek said. “He’s proved himself in this league and he’s a good centerman. He’s got a great work ethic and that’s what drove him to this level. I’m happy for him but he’s my enemy tonight.”