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Update - Detroit published an article Regarding Raymond making the squad. He certainly impressed the brass. It looks like, as I’d thought previously, Veleno will be heading to GR to get top line minutes. He certainly impressed, but it’s again a toss up between third line minutes in Detroit vs top line minutes in GR. Here is the quote from the article regarding the decision:
In the end, the Red Wings decided to keep all three of Smith, Ramussen and Erne while sending Veleno to Grand Rapids. That decision, though, is by no means permanent - Veleno could easily shuttle between the AHL and NHL based on his play and that of others. The Red Wings' goal is to get him playing time, whether that be in Detroit or in Grand Rapids.
"Two things can happen if Joe were to get sent down," Blashill said. "One, he may be in a role that's higher than he is here, which hopefully would help maximize his development. And two, it gives us more organizational depth, too. Because he is a guy that can get sent down without exposing him to waivers, so those are things that can go into decisions."
Rowney and Smith, on the other hand, would both have been exposed to waivers if sent to Grand Rapids.
"When guys play great, they find a way on the team," Blashill said.
Raymond has found his way. Now it's about what he does with it.
In somewhat of a surprise, it was announced earlier that Bobby Ryan has been released from his PTO. For most of us, that would indicate that either Raymond or Veleno has grabbed a top 6 spot. Depending on in jury, it still feels possible that both could be there on opening night. We won’t know for sure until all the releases and reassignments are finished.
Daniella Bruce tweeted that this was a tough decision, in releasing Ryan. I would love to be a fly on the wall in the round table meetings right now. Where the coaches and management pour over the roster pages and give their thoughts.
Losing Vrana for 4 months really shook things up for a lot of fans. Even though the team is improving, the depth of 3rd or 4th line guys who can move up to the top 6 without a hiccup still doesn’t feel like it’s there. Raymond’s looks were a welcome sight as the 19 year old certainly looks like the real deal. Veleno still seems to be the better “utility… player.
As soon as we know who made the final cut and where they project to be, we’ll have a better idea of how this team will look on the ice. The opener vs Tampa could be tough. Vancouver and Columbus are the next 2 opponents. Hopefully Detroit will be ready to make a go of it. Everything is starting to fall into place.
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