Mar 19, 2015; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Mike Green (52) against the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center. The Capitals defeated the Wild 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Mike Green will quarterback a potent powerplay
There’s a reason the Red Wings signed Mike Green to the contract they did–to add more punch from the blue line in the way of goals. Green is the power play quarterback the Red Wings have lacked since the retirements of Brian Rafalski and Nick Lidstrom. He enjoyed one of his best seasons in years in 2014-2015, and stayed healthy. A similar showing this season will pay rich dividends to a young team looking to build on its power play success from a year ago.
Sure he’s a liability on defense at times. And as mentioned earlier, he’s struggled with staying healthy. But the Red Wings are a much better team with Green than they were without him. His first goal or his setup of a goal will be a testament to that.
Next: #7: Young talent is oozing out of Grand Rapids