Danny DeKeyser, Mike Green, Filip Hronek and Nemeth are projected to fill the top four spots on defense, leaving three spots open for a mix of veterans, prospects or other young players.
Yzerman was adamant during the summer that every player will have to earn his job, regardless of level. Veterans Trevor Daley and Jonathan Ericsson, who both missed significant time last season because of a multitude of injuries, are supposed to be ready for camp, but their injury history leaves their status for the season up in the air.