Last night, in the NHL’s return to action after the Olympics, multiple reports indicated that the Vancouver Canucks will be healthy-scratching veteran defenseman Tyler Myers for trade-related purposes. Speculation began surrounding a few teams, but Myers can control his destiny given the no-movement clause in his contract. It was believed at the time of reporting that Myers would be okay with a few destinations.
According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, Myers and his representation have targeted the Detroit Red Wings as his preferred landing spot. Dreger noted that the Dallas Stars, among others, remain interested and that Myers is willing to wait a few days to let the process play out. Regardless, Rick Dhaliwal of The Athletic shared that Myers hasn’t been asked to waive his no-movement clause yet.
There’s no question that the Red Wings are looking to bolster their defensive core, particularly on the right side. Youngster Axel Sandin Pellikka has shown flashes of his elite potential, but it’s clear that Detroit, particularly head coach Todd McLellan, doesn’t yet trust the rookie in clutch situations. That being said, it would make sense for the Red Wings to acquire a veteran blueliner on the right side as they continue their push to the postseason.
Still, Detroit, or any team acquiring Myers, would arguably be acquiring him at a career lowpoint. The 17-year veteran has registered only one goal and eight points in 57 games for the Canucks this season with a -25 rating. While Myers has never been relied upon for his offensive prowess, that output projects as the lowest-scoring season of his career across a full season.
Additionally, even on the defensive side of the puck, he’s not playing particularly well. His 46.5% CorsiFor% at even strength is the lowest he’s managed since his time with the Buffalo Sabres, and his 88.3% on-ice SV% at even strength is the lowest of his career. If the idea is to replace Sandin Pellikka next to Ben Chiarot on the second defensive pairing, there’s no reason to believe that Myers would be a considerable improvement aside from a few items.
Sandin Pellikka is outscoring Myers by a considerable margin, has superior possession metrics, and has a similar on-ice SV%. Still, Myers is far more willing to sacrifice his body (blocked shots and hits) than Pellikka, and stands nearly a foot taller. If the Red Wings ultimately acquire Myers, they may believe he’ll perform better in an improved environment.
Regardless, since Myers hasn’t been asked to waive his no-movement clause, it’ll likely be a few days to see how it ultimately shakes out.
If Myers is acquired, the Wings should demote both Chiarot and ASP to the 3rd pairing and promote Johannsson to the 2nd pair with Myers.
Chiarot would still be a main PK guy and ASP would still QB the 2PP.
John Gibson is the Red Wings MVP this season, Detroit’s secondary scoring is nonexistent, Not sure how a big, Slow 36 year old defenseman improves the Wings, They already have Ben Chiarot.
Acquiring Myers is about defense and putting a rookie D in a lesser role to alleviate his defensive mistakes. He will obviously be less expensive for a very expensive position to fill. And if Myers only waives for Detroit, maybe just for a 3rd.
It is strange though because Myers makes plenty of his own mistakes, and is under contract for another year.
I wonder if Zeev’s older Brother or Wallinder and a 2nd Rounder would get it done from a Red Wings standpoint.
Too much, he should be had for just a pick, or 2 lesser picks.
I suppose you a right. I feel bad for Wallinder he never got his chance.