Simon Edvinsson’s contract talks headline new Red Wings-focused Wraparound

The newest episode of "The Hockey News Wraparound" centres on several storylines around the NHL, led by Detroit Red Wings defenceman Simon Edvinsson’s unresolved contract situation. With the regular season approaching, host Emma Lingan and panelists Michael Augello and Jake Tye weigh the timing of a possible deal and whether Edvinsson will have an agreement in place before Detroit drops the puck for real.

Edvinsson’s status in Detroit, Granlund’s leadership in Anaheim

Early in the show, the crew focuses on what Edvinsson’s contract talks mean for the Red Wings’ blue line and their preparations for opening night. They explore the implications of the stalemate stretching closer to the start of the schedule and how that might affect Detroit’s roster decisions and deployment on defence.

The conversation then shifts to the Anaheim Ducks, where Mikael Granlund has been named captain. The hosts look at how handing Granlund the ‘C’ shapes the leadership structure in Anaheim and what it could mean for a room featuring a number of younger players still establishing themselves in the NHL.

Fantasy angles and pressure points in Winnipeg, Dallas and Buffalo

Before diving deep into team-specific issues, the episode opens with a fantasy hockey segment. The panel identifies potential sleeper options, cautions listeners about players who might be drafted earlier than their projected value, and highlights rookies who could have a significant impact in fantasy lineups this year. The focus is on helping poolies find value while recognizing the risks tied to more hyped names.

Attention then turns to on-ice questions, starting in Winnipeg, where Adam Lowry’s ability to bounce back is viewed as a key storyline for the Jets. In Dallas, Tyler Seguin’s situation is discussed in the context of whether this could be his final season with the Stars. The Buffalo Sabres’ blue line also comes under the microscope, particularly how thin it could look if defenders such as Zellweger or Samuelsson were to miss extended time.

Messier’s Babcock comments and notable Central Division contracts

Later in the show, the hosts react to remarks made by Mark Messier about the Edmonton Oilers’ decision to hire Mike Babcock. The segment considers the broader reaction around the league and the different ways Messier’s comments can be interpreted without spelling out a single definitive take.

To wrap up, the podcast examines several contracts around the NHL’s Central Division that stand out for various reasons, whether due to term, salary commitments or the importance of the players involved. Altogether, this edition of Wraparound offers listeners a broad look at pre-season talking points that matter both to NHL followers and to fantasy hockey managers preparing for the year ahead.