NEW PLAYERS FILL DEPTH ROLES
The Detroit Red Wings attempted to add high value defensemen to the roster, but ultimately failed. By far, the most impactful move sees John Gibson sharing net duties for the upcoming season. The signings that were completed could add depth in secondary scoring and the penalty kill.
James VanRiemsdyk is familiar with many players on the Detroit roster, and may add goals for the Red Wings. With a limited role averaging under 13 minutes in 17 games, Van Riemsdyk still added 16 goals for the Blue Jackets last year. That could be a boost to Detroit’s bottom six.
Mason Appleton may be a strong PK option for the Red Wings. The right shooting centerman also seems headed for the bottom 6 after his time in Winnipeg. He could well bring some defensive stability to the checking lines.
Red Wings Prospects have to Fill the Gap
Detroit hosted several prospects after the NHL draft. The team had planned a four on four tournament that was ultimately scrapped due to multiple injuries. This put a damper on what many fans are hoping to see.
The team seems to be willing to allow prospects to battle for a place in the NHL this season. Axel Sandin-Pellikka and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard have been mentioned as potential candidates. The opportunity is there for a Red Wings player who can move the needle with their play.
The failure to add one of the higher value players available through trade or signing shines a light on the “Yzerplan”. For the team to end the post season drought, internal improvement is the final venue for an upgrade available to the team.
Simon Edvinsson and Marco Kasper
Perhaps no two players will be looked at more closely than Simon Edvinsson and Marco Kasper. Both figured in prominently last season, and both have a chance to solidify themselves as core players for the rebuild.
Kasper found a home centering the second line and scoring 19 goals. Edvinsson saw time on both the second pairing and first pairing toward the end of the season. Edvinsson will look to set a high bar for his next contract.
If Edvinsson and Kasper can build on last year’s performance, the team has a chance to compete for a wild card spot. A more stable goalie situation will go a long way in that effort as well. Detroit’s success now sits squarely on the future stars of the franchise.
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Hey Todd! Are you having trouble getting through?
Finally got through!
Did you see this Jeremy?
https://x.com/RogerHicksNHL/status/1942285981098598716
Y is dickering for Erik Karlsson!
It’s honestly the first I’ve heard of it. I guess just sit back and see if anything comes of it. There were a couple of other deals that were reportedly being worked on that didn’t come to fruition. After Berggren extended his management team seemed genuinely enthused, so interesting to see if this was discussed or not. Detroit certainly has cap space and needs to upgrade the d. Pittsburgh was mentioned last season as a possible place to move Holl, so wonder if he could be a piece in terms of salary and space etc. thanks for sending this, and I’m glad to see you!