MLive’s Ansar Khan wrote up a fine article discussing Steve Yzerman and Alex DeBrincat’s comments made to the media this morning, emphasizing DeBrincat’s game-changing talent:
“I’m excited for the opportunity that this team is giving me,” said DeBrincat, while wearing a Pistons horsehead logo cap during a media Zoom call. “I don’t think anyone’s happier than my parents, the whole family. It’s a good spot for me.”
It appears to be a good deal for Detroit general manager Steve Yzerman, who signed DeBrincat, 25, to a four-year extension at an average annual value of $7.875 million and didn’t trade a core player or top prospect (Ottawa received the lower of the Red Wings’ two 2024 first-round picks, a fourth-round selection, Dominik Kubalik and prospect Donovan Sebrango).
DeBrincat scored 27 goals in his lone season with the Senators but he and Yzerman believe he can return to his 41-goal form with the Chicago Blackhawks (2018-19 and 2021-22).
“I’m not going to set a number on him,” Yzerman said. “I think he’s more than a goal-scorer. He’s a very smart hockey player, passes the puck, manages the puck extremely well. I think he’s a good linemate to play with. He’s valuable on the power play and does a good job five-on-five.”
Said DeBrincat: “I’m definitely confident in my abilities. I think that this team is a good fit for me. Hopefully, we can get back into the playoffs. Hopefully, it’s sooner than later.”
