Picking Up Red Wings Scraps

With most of their significant core locked up to high dollar, long-term deals, the Red Wings likely won’t be very active this free agent period starting tomorrow. What they may likely have to do is say goodbye to some upcoming free agents they would otherwise keep. Just looking at the year young defenseman Kyle Quincey had with the Los Angeles Kings after being claimed off waivers from the Red wings, it is proof that if you have the chance to pick up any of the Red Wings leftovers, you do it.

Although it’s looking like the attempt to keep Marian Hossa is failing, here are some names to keep an eye on that most teams would love to pick up from Detroit if they become victims of circumstance and the salary cap.

Jiri Hudler, Wing/Center – Restricted Free Agent

2008-09 Totals: 82 GP, 23 G, 34 A, 57 PTS

Assets	Has tremendous offensive instincts and creativity. Is a tremendous sharpshooter with pinpoint precision and accuracy.
Flaws	Must overcome his lack of size, strength and defensive polish each and every night. Could stand to play a more consistent game.
Career Potential	Skilled, yet undersized scoring winger.

Mikael Samuelsson, Left Wing – Unrestricted Free Agent

2008-09 Totals: 81 GP, 19 G, 21 A, 40 PTS

Assets	Has good size and excellent two-way ability. Plays a solid game in all three zones. Understands the positioning aspects of the game of hockey.
Flaws	Has to use his size more in order to maximize his scoring potential. Could stand to play with more grit and enthusiasm. Has been somewhat injury prone.
Career Potential	Two-way winger.

Tomas Kopecky, Right Wing/Center – Unrestricted Free Agent

2008-09 Totals: 79 GP, 6 G, 13 A, 19 PTS

Assets	Has a very projectable frame, sound two-way instincts and plenty of scoring potential. Is also a versatile forward in the Red Wings mold.
Flaws	Must add significant bulk in order to make his mark on the NHL. Has a tendency to take games off, which won’t cut it in the big league.
Career Potential	Third line winger.

Scouting Reports by Fantasy Sports Services.

And, of course, Ty Conklin, who I mentioned in the previous Blue Jackets Free Agent Targets post.

Talking Points