The Fourth Period posted an article in which Marc Staal’s possible impact upon both the Red Wings’ blueline, and, quite possibly, the team’s trade deadline possibilities, are discussed:
“It’s been a good couple weeks,” Staal said Sunday during a video conference with the media. “I came down with my family around the 15th and had Christmas here. They’re back home in Connecticut right now. It’s been a lot of fun coming to the rink. The last few days have been tough practices; guys work hard, some good energy around the rink. So, I’ve really enjoyed it. I’m excited to be here and be a part of this thing, and I’m looking forward to getting through camp and getting the season off on the right foot.”
The Red Wings finished last in the NHL standings last season by a considerable margin and Yzerman added a number of pieces, including Staal, to help change their fortunes around while still going through the process of a rebuild.
In addition to Staal, the Red Wings added defenceman Troy Stecher and Jon Merrill, forwards Bobby Ryan and Vladislav Namestnikov, and goaltender Thomas Greiss.
According to Staal, there doesn’t appear to be a concern over last season’s performance in the first few days of camp.
“I don’t feel like this is a group that’s ready to prove something and not repeat what happened last season,” he said. “You can feel that energy in the room, with the guys.”
