In Red Wings Land

Detroit Red Wings’ reality hits in ‘character-building season’ with trade of two teammates | Freep

“We lost a couple good players,” Larkin said after Tuesday’s morning skate at Little Caesars Arena. “We’re still in this, we’re still in the reality of where we’re at in the standings. We know that and we need to find a way to get out of it.”

When Athanasiou and Green were pulled from Sunday’s lineup, it was clear trades were imminent. Larkin spoke with Athanasiou after the deals were announced.

“I think he was pretty shaken up,” Larkin said. “I think he didn’t really want to be moved. He was comfortable here. He fit in with us. But he has a great opportunity, he knows that.”

It’s kind of like when you’re a kid and your friend moves away to another town. It sucks seeing him or her leave and having to say goodbye.

But, this is pro sports, and that’s the nature of the business when you’re a bad team like the Red Wings.

Wojo: Red Wings’ stockpiling picks is prudent path under ‘Yzerplan’ | Detroit News

It’s not big-splash time for the big club, which is why Monday’s moves were palatable.

“We were hoping to get the highest picks we could, and in general, I think we accomplished what we wanted,” Yzerman said. “Did we get everything we wanted? Not necessarily. We would’ve liked to acquire another first, but we weren’t able to do that.”

Small victories must become bigger ones, eventually. For now, the Wings will take what they can get, until it’s time to shop for what they need.

We’ve definitely got a long road ahead of us before this team is competing for Stanley Cups again.

Around the League

Which NHL teams hold most draft picks after 2020 trade deadline? | Sportsnet

The Wings have 10 picks. That’s tied for fourth most in the upcoming NHL Draft. Only the Canadiens (14), Senators (13) and Kings (11) have more.

New Seattle NHL team to subsidize public transit for fans | TSN

This is cool and will only help grow the fan base in Seattle.

FIVE PLAYERS WHO WON AND FIVE PLAYERS WHO LOST ON NHL TRADE DEADLINE DAY | The Hockey News

AA is definitely a winner since he gets to play with Connor McDavid now.