Detroit Red Wings Set Their Sights on Promising Prospects in 2024 Draft

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ICARO Media Group
News
08/05/2024 19h40

The Detroit Red Wings, unfortunately, did not have luck on their side in this year's draft lottery, missing out on a higher pick once again. With a surprise push towards the playoff bubble, the Red Wings had just a 1.1 percent chance of moving up to the fifth spot and no chance of securing the first overall pick. However, despite the disappointment, the 2024 draft class presents a promising opportunity for the team to address their needs and add a significant talent to their roster.

Although the Red Wings find themselves in the position of making their lowest selection since 2016, they are confident in their ability to fill a vital role with a good prospect. After recently prioritizing centers with their top picks, the team's center pipeline is now in a better position, especially with the impressive performance of Nate Danielson, their 2023 first-round pick, in the WHL playoffs. With a surplus of talented defensemen in this year's draft class, the Red Wings could continue to strengthen their blue line, an area that has seen significant investment under General Manager Steve Yzerman.

However, by the time the 15th pick rolls around, the top-tier defensemen are expected to have been selected. Therefore, the Red Wings may shift their focus to addressing their biggest remaining need in their pipeline - the wing position. Fortunately, there should still be some depth in this area during the mid-teens of the draft.

One intriguing candidate whom the Red Wings could target is Cole Eiserman, a talented left winger from the U.S. NTDP. While getting Eiserman at the 15th spot would have been surprising in the past, there is a possibility that his stock has slipped throughout the season, making him more attainable for the Red Wings. Eiserman has showcased his scoring prowess during his time at the NTDP, and if available, he would add an offensive punch to the team.

Another potential option for the Red Wings could be center Samuel Helenius, whose outstanding production in Finland's top league puts him in the same conversation as highly-touted recent draft eligibles. Despite his smaller stature, Helenius presents a great opportunity for Detroit to secure a center with impressive professional experience.

Norwegian winger Brandsegg-Nygård, known for his all-around game and competitiveness, could also catch the Red Wings' attention. His offensive improvement over the season, especially during the playoffs, makes him an enticing prospect who could bring important elements to a Red Wings team lacking size on the wing.

Additionally, the team may consider Jiricek, a mobile right-shot defender with size. Although he had his season cut short due to injury at the World Junior Championship, his profile aligns well with the Red Wings' preferences for defensemen.

Other intriguing candidates like Luchanko, Chernyshov, Greentree, Beaudoin, and Connelly also present various strengths and potential that the Red Wings may evaluate as they make their selection.

As the draft approaches, the Detroit Red Wings remain optimistic about the opportunities presented by the 2024 draft class. With a good pool of prospects available, the team is eager to fill their remaining needs and add talented players to their roster. Stay tuned as the Red Wings embark on their journey to secure a promising young talent in next month's draft.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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