The Daily: Who Goes for Red Wings?; Kane Plan

While the Detroit Red Wings seem to have an ambitious plan to strengthen their offense this summer through trades and signings, it will be interesting to see how they will create the roster space to accomplish that objective.

Buying out Vladimir Tarasenko or Erik Gustafsson seemed like possible options, but Yzerman, based on his season-ending press conference, sounds like he is leaning toward bringing back both players.

Even if Tarasenko is part of the plan, the Red Wings have enough cap space ($20 million-plus) and roster room to add two scorers to the mix. Plus, there is an expectation that Marco Kasper will continue to grow as an offensive contributor.

Kane Update

Also, Yzerman has said he plans to look at trading options, which means there could be players moving off his roster. He made it clear that he is not opposed to moving prospects to improve the current roster. Perhaps Jonatan Berggren could be included in a deal. Whatever he does, the re-signing of Patrick Kane is a crucial component.

Yzerman is optimistic Kane is coming back.

“We had a brief discussion in our meeting that we would  preferably try to get some things in place if we can, early,” Yzerman said. “If not, we’ll figure out something down the road, but there’s strong mutual interest on both parties. At least I should speak for myself. And I know Patrick had suggested it, I think, in his time up here with the media as well. He played well for us and played an important role for us and he’s really a very professional guy in his approach and his attitude and is a good asset for us. “

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Former Red Wings player Phil Roberto, who played in Detroit in the 1970s, has died at 76.

Coach Todd McLellan said the Red Wings should have made the playoffs. He said game management cost the team down the stretch.

Key Detroit prospect goalie Sebastian Cossa was pulled in Game 1 of the Central Division semifinal. The Griffins had a lackluster performance in a 4-0 loss to the Texas Stars.

Red Wings Extra

Detroit goaltending prospect Rudy Guimond made 32 saves to help the Moncton Wildcats win a 4-3 overtime game over Rouyn-Noranda to complete in their Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League playoff series. Guimond remains undefeated (23-0) in QMJHL play this season. He was 16-0 in the regular-season and 7-0 in the postseason. The Wildcats now move on to the QMJHL Finals where it will face either Rimouski or Shawinigan in a best-of-seven series.

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Bruins prospect Will Zellers named USHL player of the year. Boston Bruins.

Florida: The Panthers made a five-game triumph against the Tampa Bay Lightning look easy when it was not. Florida Panthers.

New York: Ken Holland may not be the only former member of the Red Wings organization to be in the mix for the Islanders’ presidency. Brendan Shanahan is also considered a possibility.  New York Islanders.

Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski offers five preliminary favorites for the Penguins’ coaching search. Pittsburgh Penguins.