Sportsnet’s Emily Sadler asks a pertinent question of every Atlantic Division team today, and here’s what she feels the Red Wings need to answer–and it’s the obvious one:
Detroit Red Wings: Can Yzerman get his young core signed in time for camp?
The biggest topic at the beginning of Detroit’s off-season remains the most talked-about storyline as the Red Wings approach training camp. While the Red Wings’ RFAs aren’t the only high-profile skaters still unsigned as camps loom, it’s easy to understand why there’s some concern around the status of Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider.
The forward and defenceman are franchise cornerstones whose respective roles cannot be understated. Raymond was the team’s leader in assists (41) and points (72) last season while Seider’s offensive gifts were on full display on the blue line with 42 points. Forward Jonatan Berggren, too, has yet to sign a new pact. We’ve seen more and more RFA contract stalemates bleed through camp and come dangerously close to game time… will these be the same? As pricey as these contracts could be, can the Red Wings afford to keep waiting?
Continued; I’d prefer to see Raymond and Seider signed ASAP, but negotiations will take the time they take. “Prior to the regular season” is the goal for me.
