The Red Wings have recalled Joe Veleno to substitute for the injured Mitchell Stephens in the lineup, and MLive’s Ansar Khan took note of coach Jeff Blashill’s game-day remarks regarding Veleno’s likely status as “earning a long look” on the ed Wings’ NHL roster:
“I think Joe had moments of playing real good hockey,” coach Jeff Blashill said. “I think Joe’s a good transporter from one end to the next, so that’s important. I think Joe’s got some physical tools. He can beat you one-on-one, he can shoot the puck, and I think he’s accountable defensively. So, we just need him to be a good player for us, all 200 feet.”
Blashill could opt to slot Veleno into Stephens’ fourth-line center spot but might be more inclined to play him at wing on the third line, centered by Michael Rasmussen, to utilize his offensive potential.
“He’s too young in his development to say what his ceiling is going to be, but I do think he’s a guy who can come in and play those types of third- and fourth-line role-type minutes because I think he’s accountable defensively,” Blashill said. “He knows how to manage the game, knows how to manage risk and when he’s done that he’s been really good. I certainly wouldn’t put a ceiling on him, but he’s going to get a chance to get back in the lineup, and every time you get back in you got to show that you can help us win hockey games.”
Stephens has no goals, four assists and a minus-5 rating in 16 games. He suffered a lower-body injury Saturday during the second period of a 3-2 overtime victory over Montreal.
“He’ll miss some time, I don’t know how much time,” Blashill said. “He’s going to see a specialist tomorrow. I don’t know that I’ll have an exact timeline then either.
“He brings speed and energy on a pretty consistent basis. He’s had nights where he’s been good on the right side in the face-off circle. I also think Carter Rowney is a guy who hasn’t played a ton but has played pretty well when he’s played and gotten better and better, from the preseason until now. He’s a guy who can win face-offs on the right. I think we’re in position to hopefully utilize the depth to replace him.”
This might benefit Veleno in the long run, certainly a good experience playing on different lines or different positions. He has a good attitude.