Recently, Steve Yzerman spoke with the press regarding the Red Wings' immediate future and their plans for the 2023-24 season.
During an event in Grand Rapids, Yzerman said the following which has left fans worried.
While it is definitely not playoffs or bust, it seems like Yzerman is saying his plan will take a bit longer than anticipated and the Red Wings are potentially not even a playoff team.
When Yzerman says it is not playoffs or bust, he means that the Red Wings will still prioritize the development of young players and will not sell off any young pieces for aging talent.
However, the Red Wings have made some recent puzzling moves that prevent them from developing their young pieces at tip-top capacity.
The best example of this can be seen in their left-handed defenseman. They currently have Ben Chiarot, Shayne Gostisbehere, Jake Walman, and Olli Maata all making over $3 million next season and all are left-handed.
This prevents 2021 6th overall pick Simon Edvinsson from getting any substantial playing time at the NHL level despite how much he impressed at the AHL level last season.
At this stage, either Yzerman is playing 4D chess and outsmarting everybody or he is making moves out of desperation.
As seen on HockeyFeed - Steve Yzerman frustrates fans with latest statement
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