by Jeremy Laura
THE YZERPLAN
In the wake of what appears to be some in-house division, Detroit GM Steve Yzerman has decisions to make. The model of “draft and develop” has not seen the support needed by free agent signings. Most of the acquisitions seem to have underperformed with fans and media voicing frustration.
Andrew Copp did not live up to the role of 2nd line centerman. Instead, the 30-year-old found himself in the bottom 6. Copp was limited to 56 games with 10 goals and 13 assists. His 5.625m cap hit will be on the books for 2 more seasons. The value has been underwhelming. It was rookie Marco Kasper who secured the 2nd line center position. Kasper contributed 19 goals and 18 assists in 76 games. His remaining 2 years at $886.666k is a breath of fresh air.
JACOB TROUBA
Detroit’s attempt to acquire Jacob Trouba from the New York Rangers was problematic. The pre-season negotiations were put to a grinding halt by the player himself. The rumor leak had made its way to his attention, and Detroit was made a “no-trade” destination. In the aftermath, varying stories of how close the deal was downplayed the issue. Then, the trade to Anaheim was completed later in the season.
The Red Wings weren’t on Trouba’s revised list of acceptable destinations. The office did not properly assess the situation, and no significant deal was made. Dylan Larkin cited frustrations due to a lack of incoming support. The fallout is the rise of two sets of speculation. First, is there a significant rift that needs to be addressed? Second, will it be difficult to sell the rebuild to players around the league?
THE GAPS NEED TO BE FILLED
Marco Kasper provided a needed boost as an internal upgrade. While Michael Brandsegg-Nygard showed glimpses of promise, many prospects struggled in a short post-season. There are certainly opportunities, but outside options need to be explored. The loss of Walman and Gostisbehere left sizeable gaps, and the defense struggled greatly. A trade or free agent needs to be a priority, and it has to be a win.
If Aaron Ekblad hits the open market, he will likely be well sought after. Ivan Provorov or Dante Fabbro could be interesting options, but both may want to remain with Columbus. In any scenario, the Red Wings may have to pay a premium to secure a UFA. That increases the risk of another deal that won’t age well.
The trade route may, ultimately, be a more secure option. Unfortunately, the asking prices have continued to be steep. First round picks, and rumored interest in Marco Kasper. Losing the young center is likely a non-starter. This may be a year, however, that the first round pick should be in play.
THE LAST OPPORTUNITY FOR YZERMAN?
There is no way to accurately gauge the temperament of Detroit ownership. Fans are frustrated, and it sounds like players are as well. Starting the season with head coach Todd McLellan could set a different tone for certain. That doesn’t change the deficits within the lineup. The team needs an answer for the penalty kill and physical play around their net.
The season ended with tough questions and a perceived organizational split. The opinions regarding Larkin’s future and Yzerman’s opportunity are mixed at best. Mlive.com’s Ansar Khan believes that Larkin is not likely to be moved. Outside speculation will continue until something is solidified. A trade at the draft could spark confidence. An important free agent acquisition would help a restless fan base.
The feeling that this summer feels like a final shot for the “Yzerplan” is circulating. Steve Yzerman is not a reactive general manager. He will continue to build based on internal strategy and not external pressures. The results will speak for themselves in the fall. A significant change, however, seems to be inevitable. Whether that’s on the ice or in the office, something will have to give.
