3 Detroit Red Wings Not Expected Back Next Season

The Detroit Red Wings continue to be a team of transition. While the rebuild has been expedited, general manager Steve Yzerman is in the business of improving his hockey club with each passing day. The Wings were active ahead of the trade deadline, mostly as a seller and the same can be said leading up to free agency this summer. Here's three Red Wings not expected back next season:

Adam Erne

The veteran forward hasn't been as productive as needed in Motown. This season Erne has recorded 18 points in 56 games and he's also appeared in nine games in the AHL, recording five assists. The 27-year-old winger is a pending free agent who is making $2.1 million against the cap. Look for Yzerman to walk away this summer.

Alex Chiasson

Another veteran forward who likely won't be back with the Red Wings next season, Alex Chiasson will hit the open market July 1. He's been productive this season, both in the AHL and NHL, recording 20 points in 29 games in Grand Rapids and eight points in 13 games for the Wings. Look for Chiasson to catch on with a contending team this summer and try to solidify himself some meaningful minutes for next season. Because of his playing style and his recent production, Chiasson will be in for a raise and it's not going to come from Yzerman's cheque book.

Alex Nedeljkovic

When Alex Nedeljkovic signed in Detroit he was supposed to be the goaltender of the present and the future. It hasn't worked out like that at all and now the 27-year-old heads into the summer looking for a new contract. It won't be coming from the Wings as a mutual break up is on the horizon. So far this season in 13 appearances, Nedeljkovic has recorded a 3.69 GAA and a .888 save %. He's shown in the past he's capable so look for a team to take a flyer on the athletic netminder this summer with a one-year deal.

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