Yzerman did a pre camp presser. The main focus of conversation has been Tyler Bertuzzi’s Vaccine status. Outside of that, there are several interesting tidbits:
Jakub Vrana - he’s having VISA troubles so I recommend that he switch to DISCOVER. AMEX isn’t as widely accepted in the states. (Of course I’m kidding. There’s usually at least one or two guys who get hung up on the VISA issue each year.)
Lucas Raymond’s issue was “lower body” and he is expected to be able to skate tomorrow. Some of you guessed that his being held out may have been somewhat precautionary. That’s probably safe to assume. In season he may have played, but why risk it.
Berggren’s issue is listed as “upper body” and day to day. Sounds a bit more serious (looked worse for sure) but he may be able to participate for a good chunk of camp.
Veleno - one of the things I noted was that JV looked “beefier”. Yzerman pointed that out as well. Definitely losing the “kid physique” and could take part in an Arby’s ad at this point. Asked point blank, Yzerman talked about kids needing to break into the lineup, at least top 9 (he said top 12 but then revised). I still think that Veleno will be in GR unless he can grab top 6 minutes. Reps and minutes are everything. Jurco’s development was botched by him sitting in Detroit instead of playing in GR. High minutes/reps build a lot into a player. There’s no use rushing them to play 10 minutes or less on a bottom 10 team when they can play double that in GR.
Seider - Kevin Allen asked about Mo point blank. Yzerman revealed that they will keep 8 defensemen on the roster. “Mo” will have every chance to earn ice time in camp and preseason. (Sounds like heavy minutes). He also expressed how Seider has exceeded expectations at pretty much every level.
Larkin has been cleared for (most) contact. Obviously good news. It will be interesting to see the top 6 if Vrana is delayed. They may just work Ryan in on the cycle if they have other groupings set in pencil. The grind begins tomorrow. I’m hoping Raymond is ready to go. I really enjoyed watching him on the ice for the tournament.
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