DOES DETROIT'S CORE NEED A SHAKEUP? WINGS ROSTER ANALYSIS - Winged Wheel Podcast - Apr. 29th, 2026

This Detroit Red Wings podcast tackles the biggest offseason question head-on: does something need to change with the Red Wings core? Our Hockeytown roster analysis breaks down Dylan Larkin’s future, Red Wings trade options, and which of McLellan’s “jerseys” need to go this summer.

(00:00) – Intro
The offseason is officially here whether we like it or not.

(04:50) – Should the Core Be Shaken Up?
The big debate: do you move on from Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, or Moritz Seider to push the window? Why Robert Thomas-style targets are the archetype Steve Yzerman should be chasing, and why no prospect should be untouchable.

(24:25) – Edvinsson, Copp and Compher
Simon Edvinsson’s playoff-ready ceiling, what Andrew Copp could fetch in a trade, and why J.T. Compher is the easiest bottom-six player to say goodbye to if a taker exists.

(34:30) – JVR and Perron
Where James van Riemsdyk fits if the bottom six actually changes.

(37:55) – Rasmussen’s Runway and Patrick Kane’s Future
Michael Rasmussen as the litmus test for how serious Yzerman is about the overhaul.Why the Red Wings may not be able to afford to let Patrick Kane walk in free agency as of right now.

(45:05) – Kasper, Danielson and Finney
Marco Kasper’s sophomore slump, where Nate Danielson fits, and why Emmitt Finnie’s rookie season was quietly one of the bright spots.

(50:00) – Appleton and the Defense
Mason Appleton’s disappointing year, the Justin Faulk trade in hindsight, and why the blue line with Seider, Edvinsson, and Axel Sandin-Pellikka is fine for now.

(58:45) – Goaltending Outlook
Cam Talbot’s likely exit, John Gibson’s role going forward, and the Sebastian Cossa runway question heading into next year with Augustine, Postava, and Gylander waiting in Grand Rapids.

(1:03:50) – Playoff Update
The Oilers-Ducks goal-line controversy, Mishkov scratched in Philly, and updates from around the bracket.

(1:13:35) – Overtime Questions
Offer-sheeting Jason Robertson, buying out contracts, Mason McTavish chatter, and what Detroit can learn from the Bruins’ culture.

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