MLive’s Ansar Khan filed an early-morning column in which he discusses pertinent storylines as the Red Wings begin training camp today at Centre ICE Arena:
Will Dylan Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi be distracted by their contract situations?
Yzerman’s offseason signing spree did not include extensions for two of his top players as Larkin and Bertuzzi head into the season in the final year of their contracts. It’s only a question of when the Red Wings lock up Larkin, who’s headed into his third season as captain and could get an eight-year deal worth more than $8 million per season. Bertuzzi’s ability to play in Canada moving forward could help progress contract talks. It could also make him a more viable trade candidate. Both are coming off 30-goal seasons and could enhance their bargaining power with strong starts.
Will a new coaching staff ignite Filip Zadina?
Jeff Blashill provided Zadina with ample opportunity to establish himself in the NHL – a top-six role and regular spot on the power play. But the sixth overall pick in 2018 has not capitalized (10 goals, 24 points in 74 games last season). Perhaps a new voice and different approach will help get the most out of this potential sniper. The Red Wings are pleased with his work ethic and effort, but for whatever reason, the results haven’t come.
Can Jonatan Berggren crack the roster?
His chances were much better before Dominik Kubalik was signed. Now, it appears Berggren will spend another season in Grand Rapids, at least to start. The Red Wings’ top three lines appear set. The skilled Berggren is not a fit for the fourth line and he certainly won’t stick around as a spare forward. Berggren, selected 33rd overall in 2018, led the Griffins with 64 points in 70 games (21 goals, team-leading 43 assists), setting the franchise rookie scoring record and finishing second among AHL rookies.
