Major news hit the Detroit Red Wings yesterday as they signed UFA Vladimir Tarasenko, adding a potent scorer to their lineup.
Tarasenko will join forces with Patrick Kane, his former rival from the St. Louis Blues and Chicago Blackhawks days, aiming to bring the Wings back to the playoffs.
The Red Wings offense now includes Tarasenko, Lucas Raymond, Dylan Larkin, Kane, Alex DeBrincat and J.T. Compher. With the addition of goaltender Cam Talbot, who had an excellent season with the LA Kings, Detroit looks good on paper.
The Atlantic Division is on notice. Despite the Tampa Bay Lightning's acquisition of Jake Guentzel, they lost key players to their lineup. The Toronto Maple Leafs made some changes but not significant improvements. While the Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins remain strong, the Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators, and Montreal Canadiens are less of a concern.
If Detroit's players can stay healthy, the Red Wings could be a top-three team in the Atlantic, potentially securing at least a wild card spot.