As the Detroit Red Wings 2022-23 season has come to a close, it’s time to look ahead for what’s in store for the team next year. With the Red Wings setting their sights on a playoff push, expectations are higher than ever. The team is already looking towards the future and hoping to make improvements for the upcoming season. One of the keys to the Red Wings’ success will be the development and improvement of their individual players. With that in mind, which Red Wing do we expect to make the biggest leap next season?

Lucas Raymond

Lucas Raymond is poised to make a significant leap in the upcoming season, despite going through some slumps during the previous year. In 74 games, he scored 45 points, which is 12 points lower than his rookie season total. However, I believe that this was not a “down season” for Raymond, and there were still many positives in his game, showing his development and maturity. Raymond has had the benefit of learning from Red Wings veteran David Perron, which has helped him to grow as a player.

Head Coach Derek Lalonde emphasized the importance of this summer for Lucas’ development during the end-of-season press conference. In line with this, Raymond has announced his commitment to participate in the Worlds and represent Sweden. He expressed his excitement for the opportunity, describing it as an honor to represent his country. Additionally, Raymond shared that he is feeling good and eager to continue playing.

Simon Edvinsson

Another player who I believe will take a significant leap and become a pivotal piece for the Red Wings is Simon Edvinsson. Although he only played nine games for Detroit, recording two goals, a -7 rating, and 12 penalty minutes, his time in Grand Rapids was more fruitful. In 52 games with the Griffins, Edvinsson registered five goals and 22 assists, proving that he is ready for the next level. Furthermore, he demonstrated his ability to hold his own against top-tier players in the league towards the end of the season, despite being a young player prone to making some minor errors. I am confident that Edvinsson will be a vital asset to the Red Wings’ success in the upcoming season and continue to progress towards becoming a top defenseman in Detroit for years to come.

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