The Associated Press posted a summary of the remarks made by Steve Yzerman and Alex DeBrincat this morning:
“I hope all the changes we’ve made, additions we’ve made to the roster, make us a more competitive team,” Yzerman said Monday.
Detroit dealt one of its first-round picks next year, a 2024-fourth round selection, 20-goal scorer Dominik Kubalik and defensive prospect Donovan Sebrango to add a proven talent to its offensively challenged team.
The 25-year-old DeBrincat, who scored 41 goals in two of his six NHL seasons, has 187 goals and 373 points in his career with the Senators and Chicago Blackhawks. He had 27 goals — including 11 on the power play and six that won games — and 66 points last season.
DeBrincat, who is from Farmington Hills, Michigan, was a fan of Detroit’s 2008 Stanley Cup championship team. His favorite player was dazzling center Pavel Datsyuk.
“Growing up here and rooting for the Red Wings when I was younger, it’s definitely a dream come true,” he said. “I don’t think anyone is happier than my parents. Everyone’s happy. It’s a good spot for me.”
The Red Wings have been in a bad spot for several years, failing to make the playoffs for seven straight seasons, after winning four Stanley Cups during a run of 25 consecutive postseason appearances.
“They were just so successful through my childhood,” DeBrincat said. “It was so fun to watch. It’s a big reason why I play the game. Hopefully, we can be successful here again.”
