They also got Nolan Pratt, a tough, brawny defenseman. Claude Lemieux, the last available big-name player on the market, is expected to sign with the Dallas Stars in the next few days. Mark Messier rejoined the New York Rangers. Sure, a defenseman such as Hill, Cote or Don Sweeney could have helped the Wings this season. Drake or Roberts could have provided the Wings with a dose of grit and offense.
Corporations forecast the future, good teams do also.
We had a very good season. We didn't play as well as we'd like, obviously, in the second round of the playoffs. That's where we have to improve our play. Holland is confident the Wings can do so. If problems arise, he can always make a trade during the season or acquire a free agent.