The Hockey Writers’ Tony Wolak posted a very comprehensive article setting out free agency targets for the Red Wings starting tomorrow at 12 PM EDT, and I honestly think that this part of his article is the most intriguing:
The Red Wings plan to deploy a checking line once again in 2024-25. Before doing so, they’ll need to sign a forward to skate alongside Andrew Copp and Michael Rasmussen. Their best options are:
William Carrier
Christian Fischer
Jack Roslovic
Yakov Trenin
Tyler Johnson
Carrier fits this role perfectly. He plays a chippy style and has a non-stop motor. He also won a Stanley Cup playing a shutdown role for the Vegas Golden Knights.
In addition, Carrier can produce offensively as well. He ranked eighth among forwards with at least 200 minutes played in both HDCF/60 and iHDCF/60 at five on five. His 64.94% high-danger chance share at five on five ranked third in the league, too. Clearly, Carrier is not a one-trick pony.
Carrier will have lots of suitors, though. If he prices himself out of Detroit’s range, then the Red Wings should re-sign Christian Fischer to fill this role. He’s an outstanding organizational fit and had great chemistry with Copp and Rasmussen last year.
Jack Roslovic and Tyler Johnson are versatile options, having the ability to play both center and wing, plus contribute to the penalty kill. Roslovic’s speed would add an intriguing element to the checking line as well.
And finally, there’s Yakov Trenin, who would add some jam to the shutdown line. Think Klim Kostin, but more offense to his game. He hits everything that moves and is a relentless forechecker.
Wolak continues (really good stuff here); we forget that the Red Wings need to fill out their roster “down the lineup,” and Steve Yzerman said yesterday that he’s not willing to open up a top-9 spot for a prospect just to make room for the kids.
In my opinion, the Wings need as much speed and snarl as possible, and those “down the lineup” signings are always important in that regard.
