Detroit’s Most Important Year Yet
For Detroit, the time is now to make big changes. With just one day before the NHL draft, Steve Yzerman should be looking at every available upgrade. So, how did the Red Wings miss out on acquiring J.J. Peterka?
Peterka was dealt to the Utah Mammoth for Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring. The 23 year old has 27 and 28 goals in his past two seasons, respectively. How and why did Detroit not beat this price to acquire a legitimate left wing to complement Lucas Raymond?
Buffalo’s available RFAs has been widely reported. These are players that directly address Detroit’s glaring weaknesses. Yet somehow, Detroit is nowhere to be seen in this transaction.
Detroit’s Pipeline is their Strength
The Red Wings have enjoyed high “pipeline” rankings for the past couple of years. There is a lot of potential in the organization. Unfortunately, the team needs results and not hoped for improvement.
This is the year to begin trading on those futures for an immediate addition. Asset management has played a large role in the success of teams like Florida and Las Vegas. Both teams have hardware to show for their market savvy.
“Draft and Develop” needs supplemental talent and trading. Unfortunately most of the free agent acquisitions simply haven’t panned out. Detroit has missed the mark in filling those gaps.
The Yzerplan is at the Crossroads
There seems to be some consensus that this summer could make or break “The Yzerplan”. With a pick outside of the top ten it seems unlikely any player will see NHL ice time from this year’s selection. The opportunity to bring in an upgrade lies in trade or UFA signings.
The JJ Peterka deal sees Utah take a step forward. Detroit needed to have been in on this transaction. Find a way to oubid the Mammoth by adding draft picks or prospects. “Trying” is no longer good enough.
It remains to be seen what the front office is working on. If a substantial defenseman is brought in, that lessens the blow on this missed opportunity. However, if another failed effort akin to the Jacob Trouba fiasco is on the horizon the upcoming season looks grim.
This needs to be a successful summer leading to a successful season. The frustration surrounding this rebuild is palpable. Unless something bigger is on the horizon, missing on JJ Peterka may be a defining moment for the summer.
