from Nicholas J. Cotsonika of NHL.com,

1. Yzerman's evaluation

This season is essentially an audition. Steve Yzerman took over as general manager April 19 after nine seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning -- the first eight as GM, the last as senior adviser -- and said he wanted to proceed somewhat slowly and get to know everyone in the organization. In large part because of that, the Red Wings didn't change coaches or name a captain. A methodical, meticulous executive, Yzerman will make up his own mind about what Detroit has and what it needs before making big decisions. That presents an opportunity.

2. Young players' development

Center Dylan Larkin (32) and forwards Andreas Athanasiou (30), Anthony Mantha (25) and Tyler Bertuzzi (21) each set an NHL career high for goals last season. Each must continue growing and taking a leading role, and the next wave of young players must follow the example. Can 23-year-old forward Taro Hirose produce consistently over a full season on the second line? Can 21-year-old Filip Hronek excel as a top-pair defenseman?

read on