Full Breakdown
Detroit Red Wings Preseason: Roster Uncertainty and Emerging Talent
9/30/2025, 12:57:09 PM
Preseason Roster Adjustments
The Detroit Red Wings have made significant roster changes as they approach the start of the 2025-26 NHL season. Recently, the team released defenseman Justice Christensen from his amateur tryout and returned goaltender Rudy Guimond to the Moncton Wildcats of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League. Currently, the Red Wings' preseason roster consists of 49 players, including 28 forwards, 16 defensemen, and five goaltenders. The team is set to continue its preseason with a game against the Chicago Blackhawks on September 30.
Top Line Dilemma
As the regular season approaches, the Red Wings face uncertainty regarding their top line. Captain Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond are confirmed as two-thirds of the unit, but the left wing position remains open. Veteran James van Riemsdyk, who was expected to fill this role, is sidelined with an injury, prompting speculation about alternative candidates. One emerging option is 20-year-old rookie Emmitt Finnie, a seventh-round pick in the 2023 NHL Draft. Finnie has impressed during training camp, showcasing his ability to keep pace with Larkin and Raymond, as well as his tenacity in puck retrieval and defensive play.
Emmitt Finnie's Rising Stock
Finnie’s performance in the WHL, where he scored 37 goals and 84 points in 55 games last season, has drawn attention. Analysts suggest that his style complements Larkin and Raymond, making him a viable candidate for the top line. Coach Todd McLellan has acknowledged Finnie's potential, stating that he has been one of the few players to consistently practice alongside the established forwards. However, relying on a rookie in such a critical role poses risks, especially for a team with playoff aspirations.
Recent Preseason Performance
The Red Wings have struggled in their recent preseason games, including a 2-1 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Coach McLellan expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance, noting they appeared "slow and sloppy." The Red Wings managed only 22 shots against a predominantly AHL Penguins lineup, raising concerns about their readiness for the upcoming season. Despite the loss, goaltender John Gibson performed well, stopping 18 of 20 shots, and has shown promise as a key offseason acquisition.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the loss to the Penguins, McLellan emphasized the need for improvement among veteran players, stating, “Some of the older players have to get their games going quickly. Almost a week from today, we’re playing against really, really good teams.” He also acknowledged the importance of finding the right fit for the top line, indicating that the team is still evaluating its options.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that relying on a rookie like Finnie to fill a top-line role could be problematic. While his preseason performance has been commendable, the lack of NHL experience raises questions about his ability to maintain consistency against stronger competition. Additionally, van Riemsdyk's absence due to personal matters has further complicated the situation, leaving the Red Wings with limited options.
What's Next
As the Red Wings prepare for their final preseason games, the focus will be on solidifying the lineup and determining who will fill the crucial left wing position alongside Larkin and Raymond. The team will also need to address its offensive struggles to ensure a competitive start to the regular season, which begins on October 9. The upcoming games will be critical for both Finnie and other candidates vying for a spot in the lineup.
