Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman has a lot of available cap space this summer to fill in the gaps the team dealt with this season.
While they need to add some defensemen to their lineup, there are a few options they will need to avoid.
Timothy Liljegren is one UFA (Unrestricted Free Agent) the Wings need to avoid since he does not fit what they need for next season which is a tough stay at home defenseman.
Another option to avoid is Rasmus Ristolainen. Although he fits what the Red Wings are looking for, his persistent injury problems over the last few seasons are likely to continue.
Finally, there is Erik Brannstrom, who would be the best option of the three. However, he has clearly struggled with the Senators when playing over 18 minutes per game, which could be a significant red flag.
The Red Wings desperately need to add to their defensive core but they have to do it in the right way.
