from Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press,
The Wings’ top trade chip is forward Andreas Athanasiou, whose explosive speed and soft hands would be a positive addition to any forward corps. Athanasiou scored 30 goals last season, but he has only 10 goals among 24 points in 46 games this season, and his trade value is also tarnished by an NHL-worst minus-45 rating. Yzerman may be better off holding onto Athanasiou for now.
On defense, veterans Mike Green and Trevor Daley are both pending unrestricted free agents. Neither would fetch much – think conditional mid-round pick – but neither fits into the Wings’ plans beyond this season, so if an offer materializes, Yzerman may accept. Green, 34, has been productive on good teams and Daley, 36, is a mobile puck carrier and two-time Stanley champion.
Goaltender Jonathan Bernier has been outstanding since mid-December, posting a .927 save percentage and 2.38 goals-against average in his last 19 appearances, but if the Wings trade him, they would have to sign two NHL-tested goaltenders in the offseason.
Create an Account
In order to leave a comment, please create an account.