The Detroit News’s Ted Kulfan discusses the Red Wings’ potential season-opening roster as decisions apply to the forward group:
► In: Tyler Bertuzzi, Erne, Fabbri, Sam Gagner, Larkin, Namestnikov, Rasmussen, Mitchell Stephens, Pius Suter, Filip Zadina.
► On the bubble: Taro Hirose, Raymond, Carter Rowney, Bobby Ryan, Smith, Veleno.
For this exercise, Stephens is assumed to be on the roster. The speedy, tenacious Stephens seemingly solidified a spot Saturday by arguably being the Wings’ best forward, after a string of good preseason performances. Stephens likely will be the fourth-line center.
Ryan, 34, in camp on a professional tryout, likely will be signed to a one-year contract. Ryan had two goals and two assists in six games, but he also brings important veteran intangibles that could help the Wings.
Rowney could fill the role of being an extra forward, able to step in when needed.
Smith would appear to have a roster spot locked up, but the severity of his injury clouds his outlook. Also, Smith didn’t have a consistently productive preseason.
Which leaves us with Raymond and Veleno, two young players fans are longing to see in the NHL — but the Wings’ front office have a development plan in place.
Continued (paywall)
