Make-A-Wish Kid and Red Wings' Ben Chiarot Lift Spirits on 'Grumpy Day'

Anderson Shaughnessy joined the team at practice as part of his Make-A-Wish, while the Red Wings also extended Ben Chiarot's contract.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:47pm

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On a day coach Todd McLellan described as "grumpy" after the Detroit Red Wings lost at home, 12-year-old Anderson Shaughnessy's visit as part of his Make-A-Wish and the Red Wings' contract extension for defenseman Ben Chiarot brought smiles to the team.

Why it matters

The Red Wings have struggled this season, making the team and its fans feel down. Anderson's visit and Chiarot's contract extension provided a much-needed morale boost during a difficult time.

The details

Anderson Shaughnessy, a 12-year-old Make-A-Wish recipient, joined the Red Wings at the end of practice on January 28th. On the same day, the Red Wings announced they had extended the contract of defenseman Ben Chiarot, who has been a key player for the team this season.

  • Anderson Shaughnessy joined the Red Wings at the end of practice on January 28, 2026.
  • The Red Wings announced Ben Chiarot's contract extension on January 28, 2026.

The players

Anderson Shaughnessy

A 12-year-old Make-A-Wish recipient who joined the Detroit Red Wings at the end of practice.

Ben Chiarot

A defenseman for the Detroit Red Wings who had his contract extended on the same day.

Todd McLellan

The head coach of the Detroit Red Wings who described the day as "grumpy" after a home loss.

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The takeaway

Anderson's visit and Chiarot's contract extension provided a much-needed morale boost for the struggling Red Wings, reminding the team and fans that even on a "grumpy day," there are still reasons to be happy and optimistic about the future.