Embed from Getty Images Yesterday, Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman made his one and only comments about the state of the Wings. Back in April, Yzerman told the fans, media and hockey world he only speaks one time in-season, because of a busy schedule. Steve Yzerman in not only general manager, but he actively scouts at home and abroad.
In giving his near mid-season team evaluation with legendary Detroit Red Wings radio play-by-play announcer Ken Kal, Yzerman did not hold back. He gave the good, the bad, the ugly.
On the Trade Deadline Steve Yzerman said he is looking to acquire more draft picks. There is an one problem, there are some impending unrestricted free agents who are have bad seasons, driving down asking price, making it more difficult to move.
“My plan isn’t passive,” Yzerman started with, “I’m looking for ways to build for the future and trying to acquire draft picks or prospects or young players that can come into the organization sooner or later.”
On Top Prospects: Yzerman hinted Moritz Seider, Joe Veleno, Gustav Lindstrom will likely get a nine game look (so their entry level contract does not kick in) later in the season.
“I don’t have anything set in stone but that’s definitely something in the back of our mind” Yzerman said, “Do we bring up the Velenos and Seiders and give them a feel for the NHL? I won’t say absolutely you’re going to see this player or that player here, but I think it’s safe to assume that at some point some of those guys will get up here and play some games as the season winds down.”
On coach Jeff Blashill’s future: Steve Yzerman said it is unfair to pin the team’s record on the coaching staff because of injuries. The Detroit Red Wings have been without defenseman Danny DeKeyer, as well ask key forwards Anthony Mantha and Andreas Athanasiou for some time now.
On Tanking: Red Wings fans know one thing about the teams former 20 year captain now general manager, Steve Yzerman is ultra competitive. Anything that resembles losing weather just a bad team, or intentional to gain draft picks, Yzerman shoots down.
“Every player is looking to use the second half to improve and they will be expected to improve and will be held to a standard to improve and gradually become a better hockey team.”
Fans of the Detroit Red Wings can rest easy. Yzerman will do his job and do it well. He needs time.
