In his daily notebook, Detroit Hockey Now’s Kevin Allen notes that two of the Red Wings’ former first-round draft picks are still unrestricted free agents four days into free agency:
Two Detroit Red Wings’ first-round picks, Evgeny Svechnikov (drafted 19th in 2015) and Dennis Cholowski (drafted 20th in 2016), are among those still looking for jobs in the NHL free agent marketplace.
Some fans thought Svechnikov never had a fair opportunity in Detroit because of multiple injuries. There was a thought that he might find a home with the Winnipeg Jets. It didn’t happen. He received his opportunity, played 72 points, and registered seven goals and 19 points. He even spent some time on the team’s top line. The Winnipeg Jets didn’t make a qualifying offer, making him a free agent.
Meanwhile, Cholowski, claimed by Seattle in the expansion draft, was waived, claimed by Washington, waived by the Capitals and claimed again by Seattle. He played a total of 11 games with Washington and Seattle. He didn’t receive a qualifying offer, putting him in the free agent market.
Svechnikov is 25 and Cholowski is 24. Maybe an NHL team will give them a look. But isn’t it time to close the book on their long-term potential?
Continued; Svechnikov is a good depth forward in a grinding role, and Cholowski has developed into a third-pair defenseman. That’s where they’re at developmentally speaking.
