Detroit Red Wings Roundtable: Sitting in Ken Holland’s seat
By Nate Francis
Nate Gard – Octopus Thrower Staff Writer
The draft and July 1st are rapidly approaching and Ken Holland has a lot to think about. I am glad I do not have the final decision but I do have a few ideas as of what Holland should do. I am comfortable with the forward and goalie situation in Detroit for next year but am a little concerned about the defense. We desperately need a top two defender that is preferably right handed. Marchenko is right handed and developing steadily, but he is not ready for top two minutes.
I like Mike Green but I think he is more of a rental than the future of the Red Wings. I would much
Mar 14, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Boston Bruins defenseman Dougie Hamilton (27) moves the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period at the CONSOL Energy Center. Boston won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
rather consider Dougie Hamilton of the Boston Bruins. He is right handed, has good size, and brings some offense to the table. I feel that Hamilton at 22 years old could be a big part of the Red Wings’ future and the eventual replacement for Kronwall. With Kronwall as his mentor and Chris Chelios coaching, Hamilton will continue to develop into an elite defender. With 10 goals and 42 points this season, Hamilton was only 3 points behind Mike Green last season. The main problem with Hamilton is that he will be expensive.
The Bruins will not part ways with him unless they get some major compensation. The Bruins need more scoring so Mantha or Pulkkinen could be of interest to them along with either Jonathan Ericsson or Brendan Smith. The Red Wings could also use this years first round draft pick to tip the scales. These trade options would help the Bruins free up some cap space considering Hamilton will eventually cost 6 to 7 million a year.
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