Detroit — A top-pair defenseman is a valuable commodity in the NHL. The price on them in trade discussions is sky-high, so it’s best to draft them — if you can.
Don’t be surprised if the Detroit Red Wings concentrate heavily on defensemen this weekend with their 11 total selections during the NHL Draft in Chicago.
The Red Wings need defensemen — at the NHL level, and also developing in the organization.
The depth they once enjoyed at the position has gradually disappeared — and could be dented further Wednesday if the Vegas Golden Knights select Xavier Ouellet in the expansion draft.