Derek Meech

Playing career

Meech began his junior career with the Red Deer Rebels in the Western Hockey League, where he formed the club's top defensive pairing alongside future NHL standout Dion Phaneuf. He was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the seventh round, 229th overall, during the 2002 NHL Entry Draft on June 23, 2002. His first NHL game came on December 7, 2006, at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit against the St. Louis Blues, and he appeared in four games that season. While playing for the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League, Meech earned an All-Star selection after recording six goals and 23 assists for 29 points over 67 games.

Before the 2007–08 season, Meech made the Red Wings' final roster out of training camp. Sending him to the minors would have required waivers, which influenced the team's decision. His chances improved when Brent Sopel, who was on a tryout with Detroit, unexpectedly signed with the Chicago Blackhawks, and Kyle Quincey broke his hand. That season, the Detroit Sports Broadcasters' Association named Meech the Red Wings' Rookie of the Year. Because of the team's system, he occasionally played left wing, and his ability to shift between forward and defense earned him extra ice time. Although he played only 32 games and none in the playoffs, the Red Wings successfully petitioned the NHL to have his name engraved on the Stanley Cup. He scored his first NHL goal on December 4, 2008, beating Vancouver Canucks goaltender Curtis Sanford.

On September 8, 2010, the Red Wings placed Meech on waivers. When no team claimed him, he was assigned to the Griffins for the rest of the 2010–11 season. He signed a two-way contract with the Winnipeg Jets on July 1, 2011, but injuries limited him to just two games during the 2011–12 campaign. He signed another one-year, two-way deal with the Jets on July 1, 2012. On July 14, 2013, Meech moved to Europe for the first time, signing a one-year contract with HC Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League. He recorded five assists in 23 games with Dinamo Minsk during the 2013–14 season before being mutually released. He then returned to North America, signing with the Texas Stars of the AHL on January 6, 2014, to provide veteran depth for the remainder of the season.