Typically, on July 1, fans have come to expect the worst. It’s a day some of the worst contracts in hockey are handed out in the name of improving teams without giving up assets. Even if we’ve learned that cap space is an asset.



To land those players, general managers usually have to overpay. It’s how it works.



So when the Detroit Red Wings were linked to defensemen Trevor Daley in the days leading up to the start of free agency, some braced for the worst. Yes, he addresses a major need on defense. No, it’s not worth it if it adds another cost-prohibitive contract to a Red Wings ledger already filled with them.



So with the details now out there about Daley’s completed contract with the Red Wings (3-years, $9.5 million) we can do a proper assessment.



Let’s break it down.



What the Red Wings are getting



People who know Daley well rave about him.



He fits a culture-conscious Red Wings dressing...