In Red Wing Land

Red Wings mailbag: Doing some math, making playoffs ‘inconceivable’ | Freep

Helene St. James was asked if the Red Wings would pursue a big name free agent this offseason. Here is her answer:

My sense is they’re likelier to look for a patch player again, like they did last summer. Trevor Daley was someone they could add at a reasonable price and term who has improved their defense. They might look to add a forward this summer — I wouldn’t be surprised to see them sign Thomas Vanek, a guy who can be had for around $2 million and who’ll contribute in the 20-goal range. I know there is interest in re-signing defenseman Mike Green.

To be fair, St. James also mentions that Ken Holland wants there to be spots for kids like Evgeny Svechnikov, Dennis Cholowski & co. to grab. Who knows? If Holland is still around, I can see him making a totally unnecessary signing.

Around the League

Which team deserves to win the NHL draft lottery and get top prospect Rasmus Dahlin? | ESPN

Greg Wyshynski actually picks the Red Wings here. Pretty surprised to see someone choose Detroit.