The Detroit Red Wings were close to a playoff spot during the 2023-24 season but came up just short. Some of the players involved in the success last year are set to become free agents.
That leaves the Red Wings with holes to fill. They may want to fill those skates from within and use their cap space on a big-ticket item.
Five of the prospects that Detroit should look at could improve, and replace, their depth immediately. While four of the five have yet to make their NHL debut, they give the Red Wings hope for the future. Detroit's biggest problem is defense and goaltending depth, which they could find in free agency.
For the forward position, they do have talented players who can produce in the offensive zone and be a new energy to the forward group. Here are the five players who could make an impact on the Red Wings next season:
Amadeus Lombardi is a prospect for Detroit to consider in 2024-25
The 113th pick of Detroit in the 2022 NHL Draft, Amadeus Lombardi has taken massive steps in his development. He has made quite the transition from the Flint Firebirds of the Ontario Hockey League to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the American Hockey League.
While his offensive production may not be there yet, his overall game has taken off and made him a top-six player. If Patrick Kane or David Perron do not re-sign, Lombardi could be one of the players to fill that void.
Last season for Grand Rapids, Lombardi had five goals and 21 assists for 26 points in 70 games.