Detroit should put faith in youngsters instead of trading for another veteran defenceman

It is one week past the trade deadline and the Detroit Red Wings did what they needed to do-acquire a veteran defenceman. Even after this transaction, the buzz about the Detroit Red Wings acquiring Dion Phaneuf from the Toronto Maple Leafs possibly during the off-season refuses to die.

If the game against the Calgary Flames last week is reviewed, it is hard to dismiss the fact that the Red Wings need some help on the blue line even after trading for the talented Malek Zidlicky at the deadline. Of the Flames’ five goals in their win against the Red Wings, at least two were the direct result of slack defence or the goal-scorer going for the most part unchallenged. Yesterday against the Boston Bruins, two short-handed goals were scored by Boston due to a lack of a capable body on the blue line during the power play.

Despite Phaneuf’s lack of success, whether real or perceived, his sparks of aggressive play and ability to effectively challenge opponents could give a boost to the Red Wings’ defensive core. In order to acquire Phaneuf, the Red Wings brass would almost certainly need to sacrifice an active player and more than one prospect; but is this necessary? This potential move can be questioned by looking at the youngsters already within the Red Wings’ system.

Alexey Marchenko

In 42 games with the Grand Rapids Griffins Marchenko is an impressive plus 15 with 17 points. Marchenko’s scouting report states that he has great hockey sense but needs to fill out his 6’2 frame in order to be competitive against bigger opponents. If the Russian can find a way to beef up and build some muscle he could find himself on the active roster playing a high amount of minutes. Marchenko’s ability to move the puck swiftly would make him a threat on the power play and able to catch teams off-guard with a fast break out.

Ryan Sproul

Ryan Sproul had 54 and 66 points respectively in his last two years playing junior with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Currently playing for the Griffins, the 6’ defenceman from Mississauga had 32 points and is on track to have another impressive year. Sproul’s scouting report states that he is capable of chipping in offensively and use his size to add a physical element to his game. If Sproul can prove he can use his physique to clear in front of the net and provide some spark with some timely hits, he will fit into a future Red Wing roster perfectly.

Richard Nedomlel

While not one to put up solid numbers in the East Coast Hockey League with the Toledo Walleye and with the Griffins as of late, it is Richard Nedomlel’s style of play that will give him a chance to crack the Red Wings roster. At 6’4, 235 lbs., the big Czech has a reputation as playing a mean physical game who does not hesitate to drop the gloves. His scouting report states that he is a stay-at-home defenceman who will not exceedingly contribute on offence but can be counted on as a strong defensive force along the blue line with not to many opponents being able to squeeze by him.