Meech and Oulahen to Play Tonight in Colorado

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. The Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League on Tuesday added two veteran forwards to their training camp roster on assignment from NHL teams. Michael Hackert was assigned by the Detroit Red Wings, while Nate DiCasmirro (DEE-kaz-MEER-oh) arrived on assignment from the Edmonton Oilers.

In addition, the Griffins announced that forward Ryan Oulahen and defenseman Derek Meech have been recalled by the Red Wings and are expected to play for Detroit during tonights preseason game at Colorado.

Hackert, 24, has played his entire career in his native Germany. Signed as a free agent by Detroit on Aug. 16, 2005, he began this season playing for the Frankfurt Lions, alongside former Griffins Patrick Boileau, Ian Gordon and Philippe Plante.

Playing most of the last three seasons in Germanys top league, Hackert has totaled 62 points (31-3162) in 149 professional contests. During his 2004-05 campaign with Frankfurt, he notched career highs with 20 goals and 38 points in 49 games.

DiCasmirro, who turned 27 today, has been a member of the Oilers organization since turning pro at the end of the 2001-02 season. In his first two AHL seasons, he helped the Hamilton Bulldogs reach the AHL Calder Cup finals in 2002-03, then recorded personal bests with 17 goals and 35 points for the 2003-04 Toronto Roadrunners.

In 77 games with the Edmonton Road Runners last season, DiCasmirro recorded 25 points (7-1825) and tied his career high with 18 assists.