Red Wings forward Darren Helm looks as if he is ready to return to the lineup as in practice today, he is wearing a white jersey instead of a gray one (usually worn by the scratches). While great news for the Wings based on what he can bring to the table, it also means that for him to play, they need to clear a roster spot. With the likes of Teemu Pulkkinen, Tomas Jurco, Landon Ferraro, and Jokiam Andersson all needing to be put on waivers to be sent down, the Wings have a big decision to make very soon. They will either have to try and trade someone, or expose them to waivers and risk losing them for nothing. Who stays, who goes?
Teemu Pulkkinen: Pulkkinen who made his NHL debut last season and played decently well, was a guy that GM Ken Holland said would for sure be on the NHL roster come the beginning of the season. So far, Pulkkinen has 2 goals on the year which both came against Carolina. His goal scoring ability is his biggest strength. He has an incredible shot and certainly doesn't pass up a chance to shoot the puck. With his massive offensive potential, the Wings really should keep him and they probably will.
Landon Ferraro: Son of NHL analyst Ray Ferraro, Landon is a great asset to have. His speed and defensive ability are his biggest strengths. Landon last year was on the NHL roster for a few games after being exposed to waivers and going unclaimed and played the entire series against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the playoffs. With his speed and defensive capabilities, the Wings shouldn't test waivers again for him. He would probably be picked up this time.
Joakim Andersson: Andersson really had his best season in 2013 when he played with Gus Nyquist and Damien Brunner. Since then he hasn't been quite as good but is still a very serviceable player. More of a defensive type, and a strong penalty killer, Andersson is another player the Red Wings should keep if they can.
Tomas Jurco: Quite possibly the guy on this list who people had the highest hopes for. A former 2nd round pick in 2011, Jurco was once thought to be a great offensive prospect. So far, his talent hasn't translated to the NHL very well. Last season he spent a lot of time in Babcocks' dog house and played only 36 games while putting up 15 points. Many believed that bringing Blashill in meant a chance for Jurco to get his game going with a fresh start yet he's been a healthy scratch for both games so far and it looks like that is going to continue. He most likely would be picked up on waivers so trade would be the better scenario but what value could the Wings get on the trade market for Jurco? If someone has to go, it should be Jurco.
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