NBC Sports Edge’s Corey Abbott posted a set of 2021-2022 season previews for three Atlantic Division teams over the weekend in the Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres, and the Detroit Red Wings. Here’s what he says about the Wings:
Strengths: Detroit has an intriguing core of young players led by Dylan Larkin, Tyler Bertuzzi and Jakub Vrana. They could form the team’s top line in 2021-22. Suter was signed following a decent rookie year with Chicago last season. He is projected to center a second line that could feature Filip Zadina, Robby Fabbri or Lucas Raymond as wingers. Filip Hronek has displayed plenty of promise on the back end and Moritz Seider is expected to land a top-four role this campaign.
Weaknesses: The Red Wings struggled offensively in 2020-21, while placing 30th overall in goals for per game played (2.23) and 30th in power-play percentage (11.4). A return to full health from Bertuzzi and Larkin as well as a full year from Vrana will probably help change that. However, the team still needs more from Zadina and Fabbri, who have both showcased flashes of potential.
Player to Watch: Vrana was a great addition and Suter could prove to be another steal for the organization after the Blackhawks decided not to give him a qualifying offer. Leddy may also be a solid addition to pair with Seider, who is loaded with potential. However, the acquisition of Nedeljkovic is the most intriguing offseason move by the Red Wings. He starred for Carolina during his rookie season and projects to be a big part of the puzzle for Detroit moving forward. Nedeljkovic will get some help from Thomas Greiss, but should see most of the starts if he continues to impress.
So Abbott’s concerns about the Red Wings includes depth of scoring and special teams play. Sounds familiar….
