The middle of the first period was undeniable proof that the Wings need to fix their defensive corps if they want to challenge for a Cup any time soon. If it remains status quo, this will continue to be a one-and-done playoff team.
Ericsson is a major part of the problem. He made several very bad blunders that cost the team points in Tampa then did the same in Sunrise. Kronwall's not around to cover for him, so things have gone from bad to worse recently. The Wings have $4.25M locked up in him for another 4 years with a modified no movement clause to go with it.
My Personal Wish List
To Do immediately: Trade Brendan Smith and a 3rd round pick to Winnipeg for Dustin Byfuglien, then immediately re-sign him to a 4-year $26M deal.
To Do in the offseason: Trade Gustav Nyquist to St. Louis for Kevin Shattenkirk.
Tomorrow
1: DeKeyser - Byfuglien
2: Quincey - Green
3: Ericsson - Marchenko
Playoffs
1: Kronwall - Byfuglien
2: DeKeyser - Green
3: Quincey - Marchenko
4: Ericsson
Next Year
1: Kronwall - Shattenkirk
2: DeKeyser - Byfuglien
3: Marchenko/Russo - Green
4: Ericsson