Allen discusses Red Wings’ potential rookie performers

Detroit Hockey Now’s Kevin Allen posted a subscriber-only article regarding the potential Red Wings rookies who might make the lineup out of training camp/the exhibition season:

Right wing Lucas Raymond: Blashill’s decision to use Raymond with Dylan Larkin against the Blue Jackets proves the Red Wings want to give him every opportunity to make a good impression.

We’ve seen the quick release, the goal scorer’s knack and the great anticipation. We’ve also seen he is 19, not as strong as he needs to be. He’s also short on professional experience, crucial to knowing how to handle the rigors of an 82-game season. Wanting him to be ready can’t make it so.

His path to the roster is clear because Blashill has repeated it. Raymond needs to demand a spot with his play. He needs to be noticeable every game. Thus far, he is 1-for-1 in accomplishing that in preseason games.

Even if he doesn’t make it, he would be a candidate for an early call-up if he’s putting up numbers in the American Hockey League. When Tyler Bertuzzi misses his nine games, the Red Wings could bring up Raymond.

Raymond’s roster chances: Intriguing. Throughout training camp, we’ve seen why he’s considered among the NHL’s most coveted prospects. His instincts, knowing where to be at all times, are first rate.  You can see a path for him to make the club. If he plays five or six preseason games and totals seven or eight points, then they may keep him.

Continued (paywall)

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George Malik

My name is George Malik, and I'm the Malik Report's editor/blogger/poster. I have been blogging about the Red Wings since 2006, and have worked with MLive and Kukla's Korner. Thank you for reading!