The Athletic’s Craig Custance asked anonymous NHL executives to weigh in regarding all 31 NHL teams’ free agency moves (or the lack thereof), and here are some of the execs’ takes on Steve Yzerman’s short-term deals (as one executive notes, the Wings’ moves aren’t Cup-winners, but that’s okay):
“To be honest, the Red Wings have done a good job,” said another executive. “They’ll be somewhat competitive. They brought in character and leadership. Stevie Y does a great job.”
“Detroit had a good offseason,” said a Western Conference exec. “Namestnikov for $2 million. Bobby Ryan for $1 million. It fits exactly what they’re doing. They’re not going long term with anybody. They’ve got some good, cheap players who will improve their team right away. They’ve got a couple more D. They got more assets for the deadline. They’re movable contracts.”
Multiple execs brought up the character element. All the players signed seem to be oozing in character.
“Stevie is very deliberate who he puts around his team,” said one. “If a player is not a culture guy or does not serve a specific purpose, they get shipped out pretty quick. I like Namestnikov. Bobby Ryan is fine. I like Stecher. I like Greiss. Those guys are pretty good.”
Continued (paywall)
