Detroit Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman selected Lucas Raymond fourth overall in the 2020 Entry Draft. In April, Raymond signed his three-year Entry Level contract with the Red Wings. It is expected that Raymond will make his North American debut next season.
Was Lucas Raymond a consolation prize in the draft, or is he the real deal?
Generational Entry Draft
The 2020 Entry Draft was loaded with top prospects. The Detroit Red Wings finished last in the overall standings. Detroit fans were furious when the Red Wings lost the draft lottery and slipped to fourth in the first round. Most hockey pundits had Lucas Raymond ranked as a top six pick. Steve Yzerman waisted no time when he selected Raymond from Frolunda (SHL).
Elite Goal Scorer
The Detroit Red Wings have been in dire need of elite offensive players. When Yzerman selected Raymond, he was selected ahead of two elite defense prospects who were selected immediately after the Detroit pick. Yzerman listened to his scouting staff and decided that Raymond had the makings of an elite forward.