The Hockey Writers’ Tony Wolak has compiled a top-25 list of ranking the Detroit Red Wings’ top prospects, and he shares this list on THW today. As per usual, Tony’s list is well thought-out and thorough. His “final word” offers a good summary of a list that you should check out:
Detroit’s prospect pool is defined more by breadth than elite star power. There are relatively few prospects who project as impact NHL players, but the organization possesses an unusually large collection of players with legitimate NHL trajectories.
Only [Michael] Brandsegg-Nygard and Carter Bear have clear top-six potential. Likewise, [Trey] Augustine could very well be Detroit’s starting goalie in a few years. Beyond that, though, is depth talent – contributors and not game-changers.
Still, at least 12-14 prospects have NHL upside. With so much depth, consolidation can be considered – dealing surplus players at one position for players who can address organizational weaknesses. Trading Cossa (goalie surplus) to the Utah Mammoth for what turned out to be J.P. Hurlbert (offensive talent) is a prime example of that.
So while there’s uncertainty with the NHL roster, it’s encouraging to see an above-average prospect pipeline that can be deployed any number of ways.
