Listen, I get that the entire Yzerplan is to build through the draft. But there needs to come a time when you realize you've already built a solid foundation.
So, how long are we going to keep doing this, Mr. Yzerman? When are you going to realize that your Detroit Red Wings are a talent or two away from making annual playoff runs?
And no offense to the 13th pick Carter Bear here. I'm sure he'll be a fine player if and when he eventually dons the winged wheel. But earlier today, you sat there and watched a division rival that lapped you this season trade for a star defenseman.
Now, you need to figure out how to deal with Lane Hutson and Noah Dobson up to four times a year. What's your plan, Mr. Yzerman? Are you going to keep re-signing AHL talent and low-key players? Because right now, that's what it looks like you're doing.
It's easy to feel bad for Carter Bear because of the circumstances
The Red Wings have a great prospect pool and one that paid off throughout their rebuild with Yzerman in charge. But with the Red Wings finding themselves in contention in February and March in 2024 and 2025, respectively? At some point, you need to stop rebuilding and start building a legitimate playoff contender.
And it's not like Bear won't help the Wings in time. But, that's just it - in time. Red Wings fans have lost their patience and they're not going to give Yzerman much more time to get this done. In Season 100, they want to see a playoff appearance, and can you blame them? Especially when they've gone the last nine years without a postseason berth?
For me, I'm happy Bear's here because he could transform into an incredible contributor. But the Wings need a proven talent, just like the Canadiens traded for earlier today. They had no qualms of getting rid of their mid-first-round picks for Dobson, yet Yzerman insists on keeping his picks.
When is Yzerman going to get the memo? That's the burning question unless he pulls off a blockbuster deal next week.
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