Daily Faceoff’s Steven Ellis posted a list of his 5 best candidates who should rebound from “sophomore slumps,” and Lucas Raymond made Ellis’ list:
Lucas Raymond, RW, 21 (Detroit Red Wings)
2022-23 stats: 74GP/17G/28A/45P
Raymond had the best season of anyone on this list, scoring 17 goals and 45 points in 74 games. But after scoring 23 goals and 57 points in 82 outings as a rookie, expectations were definitely higher. Raymond exceeded expectations as a rookie, going from a middle-six contributor with SHL Frolunda in 2020-21, but his early career play with the Red Wings made him appear like the real deal. He’s only 21, so there’s little reason to be concerned about the fall in production, but breaking the 60-point barrier would go a long way in helping the fanbase’s confidence. It’s worth noting he was Sweden’s best player at the World Championship, and it’s not uncommon to a see a player coming off a difficult season shine at the tournament before bouncing back in a big way the following year.
Continued; I expect Raymond to take a step forward this season, even if he’s playing on the Wings’ second line.
