The Detroit Red Wings, a franchise steeped in history and tradition, have faced a challenging period of rebuilding over the past several years. To break their postseason drought in the 2024–2025 season, the team will need several key players to step up and deliver on their potential. Here are three players who could play pivotal roles in leading the Red Wings back to the playoffs.
1. Dylan Larkin
As the captain and one of the cornerstones of the franchise, Dylan Larkin’s performance is crucial for the Red Wings. He’s already established himself as a talented center with impressive speed and playmaking abilities. In the 2024–2025 season, Larkin must elevate his game even further, both offensively and defensively.
To make a significant impact, Larkin should aim for consistent point production, targeting at least 70–80 points. This would not only help drive the team’s offense but also establish him as a leader on the ice. Additionally, he needs to improve his faceoff percentage and play a more complete two-way game, contributing to the defensive efforts. Larkin’s ability to mentor younger players will also be essential, as he can guide them through the rigors of a demanding NHL season. If Larkin can lead by example and inspire those around him, the Red Wings will be in a much better position to contend.
2. Moritz Seider
Moritz Seider has quickly become one of the most promising young defensemen in the league since his debut. His combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ makes him a vital asset for the Red Wings. In the upcoming season, Seider must continue to develop into a top-pairing defenseman capable of playing against the best forwards in the league.
A key area for Seider’s growth is his offensive contribution. He should aim to increase his point total while maintaining his defensive responsibilities. A target of 50–60 points would not only bolster the power play but also make him a dual threat on the blue line. Moreover, Seider’s ability to log heavy minutes will be crucial as the Red Wings seek to improve their defensive metrics. His presence on the ice can help stabilize the defensive corps, making it tougher for opponents to generate scoring chances. If Seider can take that next step in his development, he could be a game-changer for Detroit.
3. Lucas Raymond
Another young star on the rise, Lucas Raymond, has shown flashes of brilliance since entering the NHL. For the Red Wings to be competitive, Raymond needs to build on his promising performances and become a consistent offensive threat. In the 2024–2025 season, he should focus on improving his goal-scoring ability while continuing to contribute with assists.
Setting a goal of 30–35 goals would be a significant milestone for Raymond and would provide the Red Wings with much-needed firepower. His ability to create plays and find open teammates is already a strong aspect of his game, but he needs to be more assertive in shooting situations. Moreover, developing chemistry with Larkin and other forwards could lead to a more dynamic offensive unit. Raymond’s development into a reliable scorer will be crucial, as the Red Wings will need multiple players to step up offensively to compete in a tough division.
Conclusion
The 2024–2025 season represents a critical juncture for the Detroit Red Wings. To end their postseason drought, the team needs Dylan Larkin to lead by example, Moritz Seider to solidify the defense and contribute offensively, and Lucas Raymond to emerge as a consistent scoring threat. Together, these players can form a core that not only propels the team toward playoff contention but also lays the groundwork for sustained success in the years to come. As the Red Wings continue their journey of rebuilding, these three individuals will be at the forefront of their revival.
