Aston-Reese has amassed just over 300 regular season NHL games and is actually a very useful defensive forward, but doesn't provide a ton of offensive punch, having recorded just 14 points in 77 games with the Leafs last season. However, the Detroit Red Wings appear to see something in him that others don't.
On Sunday, the Wings locked Aston-Reese up to a 1-year, two-way deal, which pays him $775,000 in the NHL, and a guaranteed $350,000 in the AHL. The expectation is that he'll begin the season with the Grand Rapids Griffins, if he clears waivers.
Aston-Reese did manage to score 10 goals for the Leafs last season, so some secondary offense is possible, but I'm positive that it's his defensive play and penalty killing ability that stood out to the Red Wings.