Four Free-Agent Blueliners Steve Yzerman Should Avoid in July

Free agency is a time to refresh NHL teams' lineups with fresh blood in order to build for the future or to win now.

For GM Steve Yzerman, the Wings are nowhere near being a playoff contender in the NHL. He should avoid veteran FOMO this season, as again, he's not built a playoff contender in the NHL.

Instead of shiny toys, he should keep his eye on the horizon and avoid these veteran defenders.

Here are UFAs that Yzerman should avoid.

Tony DeAngelo is a one-dimensional defenseman with an offensive upside. DeAngelo's recent stint in the KHL gave him another shot in the NHL, as he returned to the New York Islanders thanks to Lou Lamoriello's flawed judgment.

His exit from Philadelphia should give any NHL GM pause.

Aaron Ekblad could be seen as a good addition to the Red Wings' lineup. However, he's not so consistent, as he's been plagued by injuries lately. Even with a Stanley Cup to his name, and as a solid two-way player, he should come with a red flag.

He hasn't played a full season of hockey in six years!

Brent Burns has hit the age of 40, and even with offensive upside, we've seen a decline in his production compared to early in his career. There's no guarantee he stays with the Carolina Hurricanes.

While Cody Ceci isn't a terrible defenseman, he's been overtaxed as far as usage, and after being traded from the Edmonton Oilers to the San Jose Sharks, and now, the Dallas Stars.

He could turn out to be another Justin Holl, and isn't worth the risk considering how deep the Wings' pipeline is.

None of these players are current fits for the Red Wings as it's constructed and should be passed on in July.