from Mike McKenna of the Daily Faceoff,

It’s not always the big free agent signings that pave the way to success in the NHL. Trades can be just as effective, especially in the tight confines of a hard salary cap. And five NHL franchises have really caught my eye so far this offseason.

Most of the work done so far this offseason by GM Steve Yzerman has been via free agency, but don’t discount the move to acquire goaltender Ville Husso’s rights from the St. Louis Blues. Detroit was able to sign the RFA to a four-year deal, solidifying the crease in tandem with incumbent Alex Nedeljkovic.

Then the Red Wings went to work during free agency, signing veteran defensemen Ben Chiarot and Olli Maatta. Detroit gained scoring at the forward position by signing David Perron and Dominik Kubalik. Michigan native Andrew Copp came home on a five-year deal.

I’m a huge fan of Copp’s game and think an elevated role in the Motor City will be beneficial for both sides. Yzerman has been patient during his time at the helm of the Red Wings. But the rebuild was just kicked into high gear for the 2022-23 season. I think Detroit has a legitimate chance of making the Stanley Cup playoffs.

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