This coming season could be a big one for Moritz Seider. The 6’3” right-handed defender is an important piece of the Detroit Red Wings future, and it is time for him to take the next step in his development. He led all Detroit defenders in not just points (46) but also goals (8), assists (38).
He is a reliable player who can chip in on the power play and is not afraid to shoot the puck. The Wings relied heavily on him, and he led all players in ice time (25:04) by nearly four minutes.
Even if Axel Sandin-Pellikka can make the jump to the NHL this season and Justin Holl has a good year, the Red Wings will still need more help from right-handed defensemen.
Unfortunately, so do most teams. Righties are also in short supply. So, how could Detroit add depth at the position?
High profile, high price
Aaron Ekblad (29)
Ekblad has a strong resume. He was the first overall pick in 2014, won the Calder Trophy for best rookie in 2015, a two-time All-Star, and Stanley Cup champion. He is a big guy at 6’4” and 220 pounds. He can put up good numbers but has also had some injury issues in recent years. At 29, Ekblad is going to command a big, long-term contract to take him into either his twilight years or retirement.
Veterans
Brent Burns (40)
If the Wings wanted to roll the dice, the 40-year-old Burns may hit the free agent market. If he does not retire, he could play on the second pairing. The Carolina Hurricanes defender is incredibly durable. He played all 82 games this season logging heavy minutes and chipping in 29 points. He is also a good clubhouse presence and likable guy who could help mentor Seider.
Cody Ceci (31)
Ceci is a safe, reliable option. He is dependable, and versatile. He does not miss many games, has good playoff experience, and can play in multiple situations. He is a low-risk option who is stable in his own end and can play on the penalty kill.
Prime years
Dante Fabbro (26)
Fabbro fits right in the middle on so many levels. He’s reliable but not a superstar. He can play in all three zones but will not make any highlight reels. He’s a second-pairing defender who can play decent minutes. He would be liked but not loved. In any case, he’d be an upgrade over Holl.
Nick Perbix (26)
Perbix is a 6’4” righty who has played three solid seasons for the Tampa Bay Lightning. The former sixth-round pick has been a pleasant surprise. At 26, he’s still developing and, given all the big names on the Bolts, he has flown under the radar. Perbix is still finding his game and defining the mark he will make on the game. He could end up being a free agent steal if he hits his stride, but it is also likely he could fall to the third pair.
Rolling the dice
Anthony DeAngelo (29)
DeAngelo has a checkered past and has burned some bridges. There are plenty of red flags that might turn off teams, but that may also be the reason he would be available and at a low price. After playing half of this season in the KHL (32 points in 34 games), he joined the New York Islanders and proved he can still put up points.
John Klingberg (32)
Klingberg is a bit of a glass jaw but, when he’s healthy, he can be an offensive asset. With a new hip literally under his belt, he may be a bit more durable. He can play decent minutes in the right situations. He could be a good addition to the second power play unit.
Any team can benefit from adding a good right-handed defenseman. Given that they are hard to find and do not always hit free agency, it might behoove the Detroit Red Wings to be aggressive to secure a good option before he disappears.