Using the VUKOTA projection system of Puck Prospectus, Insider takes the temperature of key players on every NHL team. For a detailed explanation of Prospectus' proprietary GVT value metric, read more here.
Summer Skate -- Detroit Red Wings
Until last season, the Detroit Red Wings were the league's great powerhouse -- they hadn't even finished lower than third since 1991. They were envied for building one of the league's best teams season after season despite poor draft positions; the key was to keep the team together and stock it with a depth of reliable veterans and enough promising youngsters to weather a rash of injuries.
This offseason has been no different, as they recruited distinguished and dependable veteran Mike Modano, and raided the European leagues once again for Ilari Filppula and Jiri Hudler. Even with these additions, their aging roster constantly affords opportunities for the right youngsters.