Yzerman's Draft Strategy and Prospect Profiles Begin - May 13th, 2026

It's time - this Detroit Red Wings podcast breaks down the 2026 NHL Draft strategy for Steve Yzerman with no first-round pick in hand. News and analysis covers Yzerman's free agency options, prospect profiles, Stanley Cup playoff updates, and a coaching shakeup in Toronto. (00:00) - Intro Free agency is looking THIN. (04:25) - 2026 Draft Strategy With no first-round pick after the Justin Faulk trade, what should Kris Draper and the Red Wings do? The case for swinging for the fences and avoiding the safer Brady Cleveland/Andrew Gibson archetype that's burned them in the past, and how they can get a Stankoven or Hutson of their own. (13:25) - Trading Up in the Draft Is moving up worth the cost? Why Sebastian Cossa probably isn't getting it done on his own, and why the 33-38 range could be the sweet spot for catching fallers. (40:35) - Prospect Profile: Gavin McKenna Sick puck skills, Kucherov-level vision, and questions about his off-puck effort. Why he's still the favorite to go first overall over Stenberg. (49:45) - Prospect Profile: Victor Plante Max Plante's brother and what he could bring as a potential second-round target. (56:30) - Stanley Cup Playoff Updates Charlie McAvoy's suspension, the diving problem, and Carolina sitting back watching Montreal and Buffalo beat each other up. (1:02:45) - NHL news: Berube Fired by Toronto; Cassidy in Demand Why the move had to happen and what kind of coach the Leafs need next. Vegas blocking interview requests and Edmonton's never-ending dysfunction. (1:11:05) - Charlie Coyle Contract Six years, $6 million AAV, full no-move through age 38 - what does this mean for this year's July 1st market?> (1:19:55) - Overtime Questions Your questions on Kyrou, Brady Tkachuk rumors, Mackie Samoskevich, and more. --- This episode is brought to you by Hims. Visit hims.com/wingedwheel for your personalized hair loss treatment options. Support the show: Patreon.com/WingedWheelPodcast Head over to wingedwheelpodcast.com to find all the ways to listen, how to support the show, and so much more!