With the way things have gone this offseason, there's really only one direction the Detroit Red Wings should take.
It isn't a popular one. Nor is it a particularly fun one to think about. Unfortunately, with the way the Atlantic Division is stacking up, there's no choice but to choose a more difficult path. This means selling off expiring contracts like Justin Faulk and - potentially - Alex DeBrincat. It means accepting that the season's already done for and attempting to recoup as many assets as possible before 2027-28.
But it doesn't have to be all doom and gloom.
This is the kind of season that can be used as a jumping off point for years to come. The new general manger, whoever they may be, can set a different precedent from Steve Yzerman. Rather than focus on signing aging vets to long-term deals, the new general manager can trust the prospects.
This next season should be about giving them every opportunity to succeed.
Why letting the kids play is a winning strategy
At this point, the new general manager needs to know what the Red Wings have. Are the prospects able to break through, or are they destined for a Sebastian Cossa levels of endless seasoning? Sooner or later, it's time for these players to put up or shut up. Players with contracts that are waiver ineligible like Axel Sandin-Pellikka and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard should spend as much time as they possibly can in the NHL this season.
After all, the only way to determine if they're truly NHL ready is by giving them NHL experience.
Other players like William Wallinder and Shai Buium are long overdue for NHL debuts. Sooner or later, the team needs to figure out what they have with these prospects. If they're destined to be in the AHL forever, it's better to learn that now rather than hope for the future. What's the point in drafting tons of players without giving them a chance to succeed?
Mistakes are inevitable
That said, expectations need to be tempered if the team decides to enter a full youth movement. There are going to be mistakes. There will likely be several mistakes. But, rather treat them as the end of the world, the team needs to be patient with their players. Sometimes, a harsh coach or cutthroat organization can destroy the confidence of a young player.
This isn't to say these prospects should be coddled. After all, they're being paid like kings to play a child's game. It's moreso a focus on understanding that these are young players still getting their footing. Few, if any, are used to the rigor of a full 82 (now 84) game season. There are going to be growing pains. That much is certain.
But it's up to the Red Wings to be patient and proactive.
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