The Red Wings could use a veteran like Cody Ceci to improve their defense
Blockbuster deals are Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman’s style, and someone like Cody Ceci doesn’t quite fit that style. But it doesn’t mean Yzerman wouldn’t be open to the idea if a player like Ceci improves Detroit defensively.
While the Red Wings can score on anyone, they have a tough time stopping opponents, and Ceci would help them in that regard. As a group, the Red Wings are allowing a mind-boggling 32.2 shots on goal per game, and that’s an avenue where Ceci can help them out. He’s logged triple-digits in blocked shots over the past two seasons, and he is also on pace to do the same this year.
Overall, Ceci is averaging 1.45 blocks per game, so if you do the math, his presence in Detroit will take their current shots on goal allowed per game to 30.75 should he continue at the same pace. This is still higher than the overall number needed for Detroit to be more successful defensively, but it’s a much-needed step in the right direction.
Ceci’s contract would also fit easily into Detroit’s budget, and since the Red Wings wouldn’t mind making multiple playoff runs, the additional year on his contract should serve as an added bonus.