For as much as Steve Yzerman’s introductory news conference last month was about his return as GM of the franchise where he played his entire career, far more important was the vision he began to articulate for the future of the Red Wings. He didn’t rush to give timelines, and at seemingly every opportunity he preached patience.



“We’re trying to build,” he said. “We’re trying to have a team that is a very competitive team, that’s going to compete for playoff spots, for Stanley Cups. I’m not looking just to roll in here and do a couple of things that make it exciting and not truly build a team that’s going to be successful, not just one year, but going forward.”



It should be noted, however, that building with the long view in mind doesn’t necessarily mean standing pat all summer, either. And as the players around the league who could be available for trades come into view, there are at least a...