Detroit Hockey Now’s Bob Duff penned an article discussing the Red Wings’ signing of unrestricted free agent forward Pius Suter as a possible “ace in the hole” acquisition:
It’s a fair question and one well worth debating. Certainly, the addition of goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic, last season’s NHL leader in goals-agianst average and save percentage, could prove vital in bumping up the Red Wings’ number in the win column. Nick Leddy is a slick puck mover capable of igniting the Red Wings’ dismal 30th-ranked power play.
However, neither of them may be able to improve the team in as many areas as Suter is capable of providing. An unrestricted free agent signing who scored 14 goals last season for the Chicago Blackhawks, Suter gives the Wings a stellar No. 2 center to play behind captain Dylan Larkin.
He’s got the offensive skills as both a playmaker and finisher to make a difference with the man advantage. As well, Suter’s repertoire includes the defensive acumen to be a valuable performer when the club is shorthanded.
“It’s different when you have a guy on your bench than when you’re coaching against him,” Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said. “When you coach against him, you see flashy skills. When they’re on your bench, you get to know his brain. His brain is really good. He’s really smart. Offensively, he’s really smart. Defensively, he can fill a bunch of different roles. He can make a lot of plays, he can play with good players.”
