I wanted to share my thoughts on what went on with each team in the league and what I think they should do in the offseason. So, for the month of June I'll try to get all the teams done. I'll start with my hometown team, the Wings...
Season review:
The Wings did better than most people expected. After some important veterans retired or left during the previous offseason, a few upstart kids, a bunch of no-name wingers, and a goalie with a glass groin, most people expected the Wings to start the rebuilding phase. But they didn't. Detroit came together and two new superstars (Datsyuk & Zetterberg) proved their worth this season while the "no-names" made a name for themselves (Cleary had a career year, Samuelsson did well, and Holmstrom became known as one of the best players at sitting in front of the net) and the kids grew up a little (Hudler and Filppula did very well, especially Filppula). Although they ended up losing in the playoffs, the Wings got to the Conference Finals and proved they are a force to be reckoned with.

Offseason needs:
One big weakness they had was lack of physical wingers. Bertuzzi was acquired to do this, but he didn't live up to expectations. Expect the Wings to cut loose Lang in attempt to clear cap space and give Filppula/Hudler more ice time. With that money, the Wings would love to go after Ryan Smyth, but he'll be too expensive. I'd suggest maybe Scott Hartnell? The Wings could also use some younger defensemen with Lidstrom, Chelios, and Schneider adding up to being over 100 years old! If they can bring in a physical guy like Scott Hannan, they'd be able to bring a much needed physical presence not seen since Konstantinov. Brad Stuart would be a good player to replace Schneider, but the Wings have a tendancy to resign their own UFAs, regardless if its right to do so.

Outlook next season:
Definitely Cup contenders and should be a top 4 playoff seed in their conference if they can keep Hasek healthy or sign a big name goalie like Giguere (I'd put money they'll keep Dom). Howard should be backup and slowly develop his role on the team. Ageless wonder Nick Lidstrom will win another Norris Trophy.

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