MLive’s Ansar Khan took note of Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde’s comments regarding his team carrying seven defensemen to start the regular season:
“We were comfortable going into camp feeling we have seven NHL D, a luxury we haven’t had for a very long time, and nobody separated themselves in a negative way,” Lalonde said after Friday’s practice. “All seven D had a very good camp and showed to their strengths. The reality of it sometimes is maybe camp would separate. There’s been zero separation of the seven D. That’s a really good sign for us. It’s hard to get D depth. It’ll still be a work in progress through tomorrow and those three practices next week.”
The Red Wings (4-3-0) wrap up the preseason Saturday against Toronto at Little Caesars Arena (7 p.m., Bally Sports Detroit).
The only defense pairing that appears set is Jake Walman-Moritz Seider, who played well together the second half of last season.
Jeff Petry and Shayne Gostisbehere, acquired in the offseason, and Olli Maatta, signed to a two-year extension late last season, would seem to be good bets for three other lineup spots. In that scenario, Ben Chiarot and Justin Holl, signed to a three-year deal on July 1, would be vying for the final spot.
Top 2021 pick Simon Edvinsson remains with the team for now, but there does not seem to be a path for him to make the season-opening roster. He is waiver-exempt and would gain more from playing big minutes in all situations in Grand Rapids than having a fringe role or being an extra in Detroit.
Lalonde said they likely will carry seven defensemen, not eight.
