DETROIT (AP) – Robert Lang picked the Washington Capitals over Detroit when he hit the free-agent market two years ago.

The Red Wings never lost their interest in the player who is tied for the NHL scoring lead.

“He’s a guy we’ve had our eye on for a long time,” Holland said. “We’re happy to be able to bring him here.”

After he spent nearly two disappointing seasons in Washington, Lang was dealt to the Red Wings on Friday for prospect Tomas Fleischmann and two draft choices.

The 33-year-old center went from being out of the playoff race to having a chance to win his first Stanley Cup ring.

Lang, who has 29 goals and an NHL-best 74 points, practiced with his new teammates for the first time Saturday. He will make his debut with the Red Wings on Sunday night against Philadelphia.

Not only will he have to get accustomed to playing important games every time he takes the ice, Lang will have to learn a new system.

It is one that has helped Detroit lead the Central Division.

“It’ll definitely take a little time to get used to,” Lang said. “It’s a puck possession team with guys moving and going all over the place. And defensively, they use the left-side lock. … But with the caliber of player here, it won’t be that hard.”

When Lang became an unrestricted free agent in 2002 after five seasons in Pittsburgh, the Red Wings showed their interest immediately.

Detroit general manager Ken Holland called Lang’s agent five minutes after the free-agent shopping season began on July 1. But Washington came in with an offer of $25 million over five years – a deal the Red Wings weren’t willing to match.

They are glad to have him now.

“He can find the open man. He makes some great passes,” forward Kris Draper said. “He’s going to be great for the power play and he’s not afraid to shoot. Not only did we add a center man, we added a pretty good one as well.”

The 6-foot-2, 215-pound Lang skated in practice on a line with captain Steve Yzerman and Ray Whitney.

“He’s a big forward who can play,” Yzerman said. “Big isn’t any good if you can’t play. He’s bigger than I thought he was.”

Lang joins other centers Draper, Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg – who can play any forward position – in a system that gives coach Dave Lewis plenty of flexibility.

“It opens up a lot of options,” Lewis said. “But you have to get a feel now. For everything, not just the lines.”