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As Detroit prepares for their first game after the bye week, Zadina, Smith and Cholowski were all recalled Griffins recalled Of note, Zadina has 15 points in 26 games this year (18 in 35 total). The 6th overall pick from 2018 is quickly finding his game, and that is impressive. With 7 goals in this short stint, he would already project to be a 20+ scorer in the NHL. Zadina had an uphill climb to Detroit this season. The coaching staff made it abundantly clear that he’d have to take a spot in the top 6 in order to stay. Injuries played a key role in his eventual call up, but the 20 year old made it work. His compete is much higher, and his awareness and release are where they need to be. His goals haven’t all been “pretty…, but the velocity of his shot seems to have increased. His one timer from the right side is impressive, but his wrist shot is much harder than last year. The challenge to become a pro and transition from jr has been embraced, and is one of the bright spots in this year’s campaign.
Speaking of bright spots, Athanasiou has started skating with the team. Athanasiou skates Blashill doesn’t expect to have him for the weekend, but soon after. The bye week gave the speedy A.A. Some extra time and limited games lost to 11 so far. It’s clear that this season hasn’t gone as Athanasiou (or his agent) had hoped as he is an RFA this summer. At one time, it seemed all but certain Athanasiou would be moved for a nice return, to the chagrin of many fans. A difficult year may well have changed that as Edmonton (and former Wings GM Ken Holland) are said to no longer be interested in acquiring him. Of interest, Josh Anderson of CBJ is rumored to be available. Darren Ferris represents both players. Anderson has also had a bit of a down year, and could benefit from a change in scenery. It would be interesting to see if Yzerman had any interest. Both players are 25, Anderson is currently making 1.85M and Athanasiou is making 3M. Both are looking for raises likely in the 5.5-6m but both may have to take less on a 1 or 2 yr “prove it… deal.
The above article also mentions Tyler Bertuzzi as having opened eyes in Detroit with his skill in the saves competition. The gritty forward may well have earned his way into the shootout rotation. Tyler also got engaged during the break to cap off a very busy and fun all star appearance.
February is fast approaching, and the phone calls will surely be picking up in the GM offices. Trevor Daley is willing to be moved to a contender, and anyone on an expiring deal is fair game. Green, Ericsson, Daley, Biega and Howard will all be UFA. RFAs include Erne, Perlini, Bowey, Athanasiou, Kuffner, Hirose, Svechnikov and Turgeon. (Mantha, Bertuzzi and Fabbri are all RFA, but it feels like those three are “untouchable… at this point).
Looking at that list, there are a lot of potential moves, but limited value. Unless a bidding war starts or one of those players listed takes off, it feels doubtful that anything better than a 3rd round pick and/or prospects will be headed back. That being said, Holland’s return for Tatar was insanely good (and TSN has discussed whether or not Tats will be moved again if Montreal goes into sell mode).
The buyers/sellers are solidifying with teams on the fringe deciding whether or not to “go for it…, stand pat, or move some contracts. Once teams like Montreal, Buffalo, Chicago, Winnipeg and San Jose make their final analysis, the deals will start dropping. I’m still accepting trade scenarios and will publish anyone who gets a deal right in a post trade column. Give it your best shot! My long shot trade guess would be Svechnikov to Carolina for a young D. The attraction of Waddell seeing the brothers reunited has to be somewhat alluring. Evgeni has been a bit hot and cold and injuries have derailed him more often than not. We’ll see what February brings.
Tomorrow’s tilt against the Rangers could be a fun one to watch. Both teams give up a lot of chances. There could be some end to end play. I’ll publish some post game thoughts, as well as any moves Yzerman makes as they come. Make sure to check back and lend your thoughts to the comments section!