Detroit Red Wings refuse to sign one of their top prospects: will test free agency

The Detroit Red Wings have already begun to trim the roster of prospects they don't intend to keep.

One of those is Red Savage, who was selected 114th overall in the 4th round of the 2021 NHL Draft. Steve Yzerman and the team felt that Savage wasn't part of their future plans.

The Michigan State Spartans' Captain will have to sell himself to the 31 teams in the NHL as a viable prospect that they can build a winning team with.

During the 2024-2025 season, he played 20 games and scored 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) due to a season-ending shoulder injury.

While Savage, a son of former NHL player Brian Savage, isn't known for his offensive skills. But he's been characterized as a solid two-way player with leadership abilities. Those qualities are difficult to find and could still be a selling point to other NHL organizations.

The only question is what prompted GM Steve Yzerman to not extend him an ELC? Is it his upper-body injury, or is it his lack of meaningful production in the NCAA with Michigan State?

Good two-way forwards aren't built on a factory line, and while they don't score in buckets are key to maintaining puck possession. Who is the next man-up if Savage isn't it?

Either way, another puzzling decision by Steve Yzerman.