Detroit Red Wings: Expectations for Every Player at Training Camp

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - APRIL 24: Dennis Cholowski #21 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his first period goal with Michael Rasmussen #27 and Richard Panik #24 while playing the Dallas Stars at Little Caesars Arena on April 24, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MICHIGAN - APRIL 24: Dennis Cholowski #21 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his first period goal with Michael Rasmussen #27 and Richard Panik #24 while playing the Dallas Stars at Little Caesars Arena on April 24, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
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Back to Junior

Forwards (1)

  • T-Bone Codd (RW)-Camp Invitee: Cobb made enough of an impression at the Prospects Tournament to warrant a longer look in the main camp.  The 18-year old Codd went undrafted in his first draft year which was canceled due to the pandemic.  Codd will return to the OHL and play his second full season with Saginaw this year.

DEFENSEMEN (2)

  • Alex Cotton (RD): – 2020 4th round- #132: Cotton, 20, played exceptionally well for the Red Wings at the Prospect Tournament.  His offensive prowess from defense was on display and he can play the point on the power play.  The Red Wings can send Cotton back to Lethbridge (WHL) or they can sign him and he can play in either Grand Rapids (AHL) or Toldeo (ECHL).  Cotton must be signed by next summer or Detroit will lose his rights and he can become a free agent.
  • Mason Ward (RD)-Camp Invitee: Ward has gone through the draft twice without being selected.  At 6’5, Ward is an intriguing prospect who may earn a contract.  No matter what happens to his contract status, Ward will go back to the WHL and play for Brandon for a third season.

Final Thoughts

Detroit General Manager Steve Yzerman has indicated that the club will carry 13 forwards, eight defensemen, and two goaltenders to start the season.

Injuries to players expected to make the opening night roster will alter which 23 players remain at the end of camp.

Jakub Vrana injured his shoulder 10 minutes into his first practice on Saturday.  Lucas Raymond and Jonatan Berggren were injured in the Prospects Tournament and are still not 100%.  Dylan Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi are still making progress from season-ending injuries in the spring.

The roster will remain fluid throughout the eight game exhibition schedule.  Team management, players and fans will have a better idea of the opening night roster the closer we get to opening night against Tampa Bay on Thursday October 14.