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Another injury riddle tournament had me in a bit of a foul mood. Admittedly, head injuries (and avoidable injuries) are a passion of mine. While it’s clear that many of you are on a different page as far as how I processed the past 2 games, I do hope to at least inspire some back and forth that could bring some changes to these exposition type tournaments. Even the Olympics tend to bring some nasty injuries while players who want to get some notice from the “big leagues” go overboard. Luckily, international reffing is better and the rules are fairly stiff when it comes to head contact. The officiating at the prospects camp just wasn’t able to keep things under control.
Moving on, I want to wrap up on some final thoughts of what we saw.
Coaching - Detroit seemed to have the least amount of structure of the 3 teams they played. St. Louis, Dallas and Columbus all had stronger special teams and defensive coverage. Even though Detroit won the first game, a lot of that was Brattstrom and his work in the first 2 periods. I know this was the first time in 2 years for this type of setup, and it was a lot of new faces. Still, the problems we saw at the NHL level (horrible power play, PK issues and lack of defensive coverage) seemed evident. If you go back to the Columbus game, it seemed like one side of the net was always left uncovered by the defense. There was always a wide open player ready for an attempt. The structure just wasn’t there.
Talent - the first night, when Detroit had its full forward roster, was the best for the forwards. It was clear that Berggren and Raymond brought something special to the table on that line with Veleno. Chase Pearson and Tyutyayev were able to benefit as the defense was focused on that top line. Once those two were gone, it was very difficult for the forwards to create. Veleno played his heart out, and tried to singlehandedly create opportunities. He was just surrounded and stifled with the defense not having to focus on much more than one line (sound familiar?). I feel confident that Veleno and Raymond will earn NHL jobs after this season. Berggren, I hope he’s ok. If he can return to the ice I’d put him in that group. Chase Pearson will likely earn a 4th line spot after this season (or sooner depending on injury). After watching these players, I think everyone should start out in Grand Rapids and get some reps in. Zito also had some nice looks.
Defense - McIsaac was starting to find his timing again, and obviously things were cut short. The good news is that he can move all his limbs/extremities. Hopefully he can rehabilitate quickly. Sebrango and Newpower both had decent moments, but I don’t see anyone from the tournament blue line making a push pasts Grand Rapids at this point. Johansson could well be the next prospect to grab a job and he is in Europe this year. He and Edvinsson could both have an excellent camp next season.
Goaltending - Brattstrom was the strongest in the tournament. His performance lagged after he was injured (probably should have left the game, but I admire his spirit). Cossa had one good period (the second) against St. Louis. Bednar had a rough run last night. None of the goalies had great defensive support and seemed to face breakaways every couple minutes.
In short, the overall performance was disappointing. As players were shelved, things got worse. I’ll credit Veleno and Pearson for trying to make a go of things, but the supporting cast just thinned out too much. We’ll see how everyone responds at the main camp. Someone could break out, but it seems that the players involved in the tournament are headed to the lower leagues to start the season. Veleno, Raymond, Berggren (if healthy) will all likely get some sort of look in the NHL. Whether it’s a call up or an end of the year stint. I’m more concerned that the defense just doesn’t look ready to step up.
Let me know your thoughts, and if you think any of these players will grab a roster spot to start the season. The first night had some exciting shifts. Raymond had 3 goals in 2 games. There are still good building blocks in the system, but it looks like some time in Grand Rapids, Toledo or in Junior will benefit most of them at this point.
Check out my previous posts:
St Louis had their way with Detroit
Pregame Detroit vs St Louis
Soderblom and Edvinsson combine for GWG
Detroit is looking for a 2nd straight win,
Detroit won its first game of the prospects tournament
Frolunda won 2-0
Detroit is streaming the prospects tournament
Word on Woodward talks prospect tournament
Givani Smith signs 2 yr 1 way deal at 750k
Up Close with Jared McIsaac
Griffins TV packages are available
Frolunda Drops opener, Oesterle on Wings TV
Word on Woodward with Robby Fabbri
Prospects Camp Roster and Denver Wings
Cholowski signs with Kraken
Simon Edvinsson is picking up points
10 Days Until Prospect Camp
The Atlantic Division is a bit of a gauntlet for a rebuilding team.
Filip Hronek’s 3 year extension
Who’s your newbie? 
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