from Gregg Krupa of the Detroit News,

The Red Wings begin arguably their most consequential preseason in a generation Wednesday against the Penguins.

They start with perhaps less established NHL talent than since Steve Yzerman first pulled on the Wings jersey for September games in 1983.

Positions in the lineup are available. A desperate search for the next stars continues.

Lines will debut.

Several prospects, in whom all hope increasingly rests, will vie for the openings.

It has been 13 years since much, if anything at all, was at stake in the preseason. In September 2005, a well-matured franchise became accustomed to a distinctly acquired taste, Mike Babcock, its new head coach.

Before that, preseasons were largely inconsequential for a decade or more, with a largely veteran lineup set, and preparing to vie for the Stanley Cup.

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If you missed the Zetterberg tribute video the Wings released, it is in the KK Hockey section.