from Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News,

Hockey season is about to begin, and there’s no better indication of that then the start of the NHL Prospects Tournament on Friday in Traverse City.

The host Red Wings will be one of eight teams in the 19-year-old tournament at Centre ICE Arena — including top prospects from Carolina, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Minnesota, the New York Rangers and St. Louis — which is a crucial first step for young players searching to make an impression.

And there definitely are Red Wings’ players in that category.

“For sure it’s an evaluation camp,” said Ryan Martin, Red Wings’ assistant general manager. “It’s an excellent opportunity for players to show what they can do, in front of the front office, coaching staff, the eight teams competing at the tournament, and representatives from all 31 teams who will be there.”

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