WINGS ARE GETTING YOUNG AND DEEP!

I'm cautiously optimistic about Doucet's future after a decent first full season in the NHL. He needs to take the next step and become more consistent, but I think he has the tools to be a solid contributor.

@RedWingRusty: Agree that Doucet showed promise last season and I'm expecting him to make further strides next year after getting more experience in the AHL playoffs with Grand Rapids. He's still just 22 years old and has time to develop into a key role player for this team.

@RedWingRusty: Exactly, Doucet's got time on his side and I think last year was just a taste of what he can become in the league. The AHL playoffs will only help him grow as a player.

@RedWingRusty said:

@RedWingRusty: Exactly, Doucet's got time on his side and I think last year was just a taste of what he can become in the league. The AHL playoffs will only…

@DetroitTom: I'd add that playing on a short leash and being given clear defensive responsibilities will help Doucet grow into his role quickly. That's the approach they took with Larkin early on, and it paid dividends in my opinion.

Kid, you bring up an excellent point about Larkin's development - the way they used him as a one-way player did wonders for his confidence and game. Giving Doucet clear defensive responsibilities will indeed help him grow into a more well-rounded player.

@GordieHoweElbows: completely agree that Doucet can benefit from being used as a one-way player, like they did with Larkin. It worked out well for Larks, so why not give it a shot? @RedWingRusty is on the same page, btw.

WISH we could get Doucet on a short leash ASAP! That one-way thing would be HUGE for his confidence 🔥