Red Wings Weekly Review: Eichel and the Monthlong Waiting Game

Octopus Thrower

The Detroit Red Wings haven’t been mentioned–and it doesn’t seem like they would be in the Jack Eichel Trade Rumor bonanza that has gotten the attention of fanbases not playing in the semi-finals. All signs point to Eichel heading west and the New York Post’s Larry Brooks pencils in the Blackhawks as potential contenders to get the disgruntled American forward.

Brooks indicates that Chicago would likely part with young center Kirby Dach, who the Hawks took two seasons ago at #3. Also included would most likely be its first rounder in 2021 (#11). Again, a steep price and one that gives some Red Wings fans pause as to whether draft picks and a high end prospect are worth it.

There is nary a peep out of Hockeytown–but this is hardly shocking. For starters, general manager Steve Yzerman won’t tip his hand while the Sabres would be hard pressed to deal Eichel to a division rival.

Trade Rumors Shorten the Wait for the Draft

Let’s face it–all the news with Eichel, and Seth Jones rumors have made for a nice distraction as we’re going on almost two months without Red Wings hockey. This coming season serves as a transition of sorts–though it’s not expected that Detroit competes for a playoff spot, it’s expected that another step toward competitiveness is due.

Though it seems a long-shot for both players, the acquisition of one would bring those expectations up even more. In the meantime, the draft inches closer and the clamor of who they’ll take at six and 22 becomes the main focus. We’ll take a look at numerous angles here at Octopus Thrower but if there’s anything seen with mock drafts across the hockey world, there isn’t a terrible amount of consistency outside of Owen Power. It could go a number of directions.

One name to watch closely: Fabian Lysell. Alex wrote about Yzerman could make him a surprise pick at six, especially since his two-way game fits the scheme both Yzerman and head coach Jeff Blashill preach.

Then again, this whole draft could feature one big surprise after another.

Red Wings Views around the ‘Net

We ultimately figured that Dougie Hamilton coming to Detroit was probably not happening, especially since the timeline wouldn’t match up for him or the Red Wings. The Hockey Writers’ Devin Little feels similarly–noting that it’s certainly an upgrade but one that doesn’t make sense in the current time frame.

WIIM’s Jake Rivard looked at whether many of the veterans (like Darren Helm) should be kept or cut loose. Similar to the conclusion Alex drew, it’s time to wave goodbye and enjoy the memories Helmer brought.

Finally, the Athletic’s Max Bultman writes about the lessons that the Red Wings can learn from watching the final four teams in the playoffs. Overarching message?

The waiting game will still be awhile for Detroit to acquire those necessary ingredients for a championship.

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