Battle underway in Detroit for this top line role: Three names in the running

Training camp is going to get exciting for Red Wings fans, as the lineup hasn't fully taken shape yet.

There's going to be a battle underway in Detroit for the top line spot with center Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. A player who will flank these two will have to possess the needed grit, playmaking abilities, and shot to be an obvious choice.

The Red Wings began camp with an interesting choice on the left wing, in Elmer Soderblom. The towering 6-foot-8 forward is a possibility, with his size and puck-handling skills. But he hasn't been able to break out in the NHL. Will it happen this year after signing a new contract?

Other options available are James Van Riemsdyk, who was signed during the offseason and seemed like a bottom-six candidate.

In 71 games with the Columbus Blue Jackets last season, he scored 36 points (16-20) and ended the year with a -4. JVR brings versatility and scoring capabilities, which could be helpful on the team's 1st-line. But due to issues beyond his control, he wasn't in Traverse City.

Other selections remain viable, but would they be sustainable? Andrew Copp played 56 games and scored 23 points (10-13).

JT Compher is another choice, who, like Copp, has seen his production decline, and a chance at playing alongside Raymond and Larkin could increase his output and make him an exciting option at the trade deadline.

Marco Kasper and Emmitt Finnie would be interesting prospects who should be ideal choices, but Finnie hasn't been promoted, and Kasper has found a new home as 2C between Alex DeBrincat and Patrick Kane.

For now, it's a toss-up of who will be lining up next to whom this year.