The Hockey Writers’ Tony Wolak offers expectations for each and every one of the Red Wings’ roster additions this morning. His expectations for Alex DeBrincat are realistic….
Alex DeBrincat – RW
Contract: Four years – $7.875 million AAV
Role(s): DeBrincat will be a top-six forward for the Red Wings, with a majority of his time spent on the top line. He’ll also man the left flank on the top power play unit, where he’ll be the primary shooter.
Value/Production Expectations: It will be interesting to see how DeBrincat—who has historically thrived with elite playmakers—meshes with Detroit’s top forwards. Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond are dual threats – solid playmakers and shooters, and David Perron is more of a shooter than a passer. Andrew Copp has decent playmaking skills as well. None are elite, though.
All of this to say, I don’t think 40 goals is likely. DeBrincat scoring 30 is much more probable. Either way, he gives the Red Wings a sorely needed scoring boost and adds a ton of value to the power play.
But I think that he under-sells Jeff Petry a bit, given his power play aplomb:
Jeff Petry – RD
Contract: Two years – $2,343,750 AAV
Role(s): If Gostisbehere leans offense, and Holl leans defense, then Petry is the bridge between the two as an all-situations defender within the bottom four. He could see some time on the second power play—either as the quarterback or on the left flank—and will likely have a minor role on the penalty kill. In addition, Petry is likely the first choice for top-pairing duties if Moritz Seider or Jake Walman miss time.
Value/Production Expectations: Historically, Petry has been a strong offensive contributor. He also turns 36 midway through the season and is joining a new team. Expect Petry’s offensive numbers to decline a little bit – 15-20 points in 60-plus games is a fair projection.
I know it’s “root for the old guys” syndrome, but I hope that Petry can post in excess of 30 points this upcoming season.
Continued; Tony asked to be featured here on TMR, and I agreed that his work merits sharing.
