The Detroit News’s Ted Kulfan took note of Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman’s comments regarding top prospects Nate Danielson and Axel Sandin Pellikka, which the GM made during today’s press conference:
▶ Yzerman wouldn’t rule out a prospect from Grand Rapids such as Nate Danielson or Axel Sandin-Pellikka making the opening night roster. “I don’t want to rule anybody (out) to have a strong preseason and forcing us to take a longer look. That’s possibly for several players, including Nate. We have 12 players (forwards) signed so our debate is whether to sign another one to have 13 forwards, or do we leave that spot open to see if something comes up this summer.”
▶ On Sandin-Pellikka, the young defenseman gained pro experience being able to participate during the playoffs in Grand Rapids, but making the NHL next fall isn’t going to be easy. “I’ll wait and see. I’m not going to rule out any player coming in and being so good in camp that we’re going to keep him. We’ll see how it goes. I guess I can answer that question at the end of training camp. It’s great Axel came over at the end of his (Swedish) season and play some games in Grand Rapids to get a feel. It was enlightening for him, maybe even eye-opening. But he’ll have to force himself into the lineup.”
