from Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News,

"There are certain non-negotiables on our hockey team," Blashill said Thursday. "You have to make sure to work, compete and execute. Execute can show itself in practice and how you drill. We're trying to be as perfect as possible out there.

"That was the message we talked about yesterday, and let's go and let's get's after it on day one and keep getting better every day."

As he begins his seventh season as Wings coach, Blashill has a revamped roster that is getting younger, and possibly more talented.

The fight for playing time is expected to be intense, with more depth throughout the lineup.

"We'll see which guys, over the next few weeks, grab spots," Blashill said. "I'm interested to watch and see."

The defense will be an interesting area to watch.

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