As per Kevin Allen and Bob Duff of Detroit Hockey Now, expect big changes to both the roster and the coaching staff of the Detroit Red Wings next season. In a recent article, both wrote that it is unlikely that head coach Jeff Blashill will be returning to the organization next season and both believe there will be more changes beyond the coaching staff.
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If the Red Wings do replace Blashill — simply because he’s had a long time to try and right the ship with no success — Allen noted that sources believe GM Steve Yzerman will look at more gritty, tough, and demanding coaching candidates. The most likely option would be someone who has a ton of experience at the NHL level. Duff writes,:
Considering the manner in which this team has sunk like a rock in the second half of the season, combined with their absolutely horrid defensive play and dismal special teams performance, there’s just no way that Blashill will be back behind the Red Wings bench next season.
Red Wings offseason 2022 plans
When it comes to the roster, there are a few things the Red Wings, a rebuilding franchise, will be on the lookout for. Among Yzerman’s priorities will be a second-line center and an experienced second-pairing defenseman. Andrew Copp of the New York Rangers and Vincent Trocheck of the Carolina Hurricanes were mentioned. Filip Forsberg’s name was also brought up out of Nashville, even though the pending UFA winger wouldn’t solve either of the Red Wings’ needs down the middle or on the blue line.
What About Potential Trades?
Tyler Bertuzzi, Filip Zadina, and Filip Hronek could also be used as potential trade assets this offseason, even though Yzerman has not completely given up on Zadina, writes Allen. Zadina still has trade value, which could be why the Red Wings look at something and he could be part of the package to acquire a veteran defenseman.
As for Bertuzzi, if Yzerman can’t get him signed to a reasonable extension, the team will try to get back a player or two.
Duff writes, “There’s lots of scuttlebutt in NHL circles that Yzerman is ready to make major changes this offseason, both through free agency and trades.”
Next: Robin Lehner Out For Remainder of Golden Knights’ Season
The post NHL Rumors and Updates: Potential Red Wings Offseason Plans appeared first on NHL Trade Talk.
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