Ranking all the Detroit Red Wings forwards ahead of next season

PUBLICATION

William Austin
July 9, 2024 (7:31)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Detroit Red Wings have one of the more promising rosters in the NHL for 2024-25, and making the playoffs is a prerequisite for a successful campaign.
Ranking their forwards should give us a good idea of what roles they should play this season. Here are the rankings:

12 - Joe Snively
Joe Snively should serve as organizational depth if a top prospect earns a lineup spot. He's played 27 games in three seasons, all with the Washington Capitals, and showed potential with 7 points in 12 games in 2021-22.

11 - Tyler Motte
A career journeyman, Tyler Motte will likely log fourth-line minutes for his seventh NHL team. He brings a hard-hitting presence to the lineup.

10 - Christian Fischer
Christian Fischer will likely play fourth-line minutes, focusing on defense. His impressive on-ice save percentage of 92.4% at even strength last season highlights his defensive value.

9 - Joe Veleno
Joe Veleno provides quality minutes with a physical, reliable game. He can double-digit goals and win faceoffs, making him valuable on the lower lines.

8 - Michael Rasmussen
Similar to Veleno, Michael Rasmussen is a reliable depth forward known for his physical play and faceoff skills.

7 - Andrew Copp
Andrew Copp's productivity dipped last season, but he remains reliable in the faceoff circle and defensively.

6 - Vladimir Tarasenko
Vladimir Tarasenko, a recent Stanley Cup winner, was a necessary late addition in free agency. He should be a reliable points producer.

5 - J.T. Compher
J.T. Compher, another recent Stanley Cup winner, brings a solid defensive game and enough offensive production to earn a top-five spot.

4 - Patrick Kane
Patrick Kane had a resurgence with 47 points in 50 games last season. While not the player he once was, Kane remains one of the NHL's best wingers.

3 - Alex DeBrincat
Alex DeBrincat had a solid season with 67 points and 27 goals. A 70-point season is expected as he looks to improve further.

2 - Lucas Raymond
Lucas Raymond had a breakout season with 31 goals and 72 points. Fans will look for him to increase that output as he enters his prime.

1 - Dylan Larkin
Dylan Larkin, despite injuries, finished with over a point per game. He is the team's best forward and most reliable goal-scorer. Staying healthy is crucial for the Red Wings to break through the playoff barrier this season.

Source: Octopus Thrower
Ranking the Red Wings forwards for the 2024-25 season from worst to first