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Ansar Khan writes that the Wings are “seeking to regain their identity…. While, there is some merit there, it can be argued that there’s a step forward the team will be looking at. One we’ve talked about ad nauseam as the season approaches the midway point.
Like many (if not most) of you, it’s agreed that the answer needs to be found internally within the season. There are multiple players capable of being productive in a system that has better structure in the defensive zone. We know there’s talent that can take a breakout pass, or even skate the puck into the O zone. Clearing the puck during defensive cycles for chances against remains an issue. Whether it’s a matter of good scouting or broadcasting via the player, too many attempted clearings have led to chances against.
If you put this roster side by side with the roster that ended the 18/19 season it’s almost completely different. Larkin is the highest profile name left. Rasmussen, Veleno and Berggren hadn’t found a roster spot and Hirose seems to be unable to shake the AHL. Yzerman has turned over the roster in impressive fashion. The top current defenseman was his first draft pick, with Walman coming in via trade. Compher, Debrincat, Kane, Perron, Copp and Gostisbehere may be the better signings/trades he’s made. This is Yzerman’s team and Yzerman’s coach.
The hope is to see at least a renewed or newly implanted commitment in all 3 zones from puck drop to the final horn. In a single day between games, that’s not a lot of time to implement some new thoughts. We’ll see how the team handles Winnipeg tonight. Let me know your thoughts about what you’d like to see, or even what you think the team could do to help shut down chances against and increase offensive pressure.