Yes, at last we are nearing the start of the 2022-23 season, a time in which all 32 teams have a shot at winning the Stanley Cup. Here are some of the top headlines and notes prior to the NHL season:
David Perron sees himself as a "difference maker."
The 34-year-old veteran forward views himself as a difference-maker within the Detroit Red Wings organization. Perron is coming off of another solid season playing for the St. Louis Blues, where the winger was able to put up 57 points in 67 games.
To start, the Red Wings signed Perron to a two-year contract, worth a total value of $9,500,000, or an average of $4,750,000 per year.
What does Perron bring to the Red Wings' lineup? Perron will act as a veteran presence on a young Detroit team. The veteran will play in the top-six with the likes of Lucas Raymond and Dylan Larkin, among some names.
The Red Wings are in the midst of a rebuild but are at the stage where contending for a playoff spot will be highly likely. It is expected that Perron puts up reasonable point totals during his time in St. Louis. The vet is expected to put up 60 points in 82 games.
Mike Matheson to lead the Habs' D-core
The newly acquired Canadien will have every opportunity to showcase his talents and skills to the organization, as the club looks for Matheson to lead the defensive load. After the recent news of Joel Edmundson's injury, Montreal will turn to Matheson to run the d-core.
Matheson is a veteran d-man who was acquired this offseason via trade. The former first-round pick has played in over 417 NHL games, with the Florida Panthers and Pittsburgh Penguins. Matheson's game is quite similar to that of former player Jeff Petry.Matheson showcases elite-skating along with the ability to move the puck at ease.
Montreal is expected to start the 2022-23 season with a core of Matheson, David Savard, Chris Wideman, Jordan Harris, and Justin Barron, among some names.
Stuart Skinner Are you prepared for an NHL opportunity?
The 23-year-old goaltender, Skinner, is ready for the opportunity as a full-time NHL netminder. After the departure of Mike Smith and Mikko Koskinen, the role of backup netminder has arisen for the young hometown native.
Skinner was originally drafted into the Edmonton organization with the 78th overall selection during the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. Skinner has played in a total of 14 NHL games, 13 of which were played last year. The Edmonton native impressed in his brief time last season, posting a 2.62 GAA and a .913 save percentage.
For Skinner, he will serve as the backup to Jack Campbell. It is expected that Skinner plays in at least 25 games this season and posts similar numbers to last year.