Today was supposed to be the Red Wings’ locker clean-out, a day that formalizes the end of an NHL team’s season. Normally, players, coaches and executives reflect on the season that was, and look ahead to looming challenges. It’s a good time to take stock of a franchise’s position. With this Red Wings season, none of that would have been too difficult — even if a little painful — for anyone involved. Of course, none of that will be happening today, with much more pressing issues at hand. But, there’s no reason we can’t take this opportunity to look ahead, to a time when locker clean-outs will take on a very different tone. Here then, is a letter from 2024, in a world where the Red Wings are rebuilt, and the questions surrounding the franchise are of a whole new variety.



May 6, 2024:



There was something different about this locker clean-out, and not just the fact it was 75 and sunny outside.



It was certainly a...