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Red Wings: Grading Yzerman’s Offseason Moves at the Halfway Point

By Alex Faber

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 08: Tampe Bay Lightning GM Steve Yzerman walks the red carpet prior to the Hockey Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 8, 2010 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 08: Tampe Bay Lightning GM Steve Yzerman walks the red carpet prior to the Hockey Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 8, 2010 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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Vladislav Namestnikov – B

Although not quite as effective as the Stecher and Ryan signings, the decision to add Vladislav Namestnikov to the lineup has proven a good one.

Although not blowing anyone away in points (9, tied for fifth on the team), Namestnikov has found a comfortable spot centering Detroit’s second line. Although occasionally carried a bit by the play of the second line wingers (Filip Zadina, Bobby Ryan, Robby Fabbri), most of the time he looks quite comfortable with them.

Namestnikov’s agility has been noticeable all year, often creating at least a few decent chances. However, it seems the former Tampa Bay Lightning player has had trouble finishing plays all year. If he can start cashing in on the chances he creates, the free agent move will go from a good one to a great one.

Jon Merrill – B

Merrill has quietly been a steady signing for Yzerman. He’s a minutes eater and also has a GAR of 2.4 (via Evolving-Hockey). Not bad for a guy signed to a deal just slightly under a million ($925,000). The signing didn’t break the bank, and it bolstered Detroit’s blue line depth.

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