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About Michael Caples

Michael Caples was born just minutes outside of Detroit and the Canadian border, into a family that introduced him to hockey the day he was born.

By the age of three, Michael could recite every NHL club, where they were from, and the primary colors in each jersey. He has worked for the Red Wings’ official website since 2008 and has contributed articles for LAKings.com, Michigan Hockey, and various other sports publications.

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2010-11 preview: Detroit Red Wings Print
Central
Written by Michael Caples   
Sunday, August 29, 2010 00:00

With just a few minor offseason tweaks, GM Ken Holland affirmed his belief in his veteran core. Will hometown hero Mike Modano give the Wings the added firepower they need to make another Cup run?

2009-10: 44-24-14, 122 points, lost to San Jose in second round

Key additions: C Mike Modano, F Jiri Hudler, D Ruslan Salei

Key losses: F Jason Williams, D Brett Lebda, D Andreas Lilja

Overview:
The Red Wings suffered through a horrible rash of injuries last season, and ran out of gas during their second-round clash with San Jose. Their longest summer break since 2006 should result in a rested, veteran leadership group, and serve as a time for goaltender Jimmy Howard to process his first full NHL season. The Calder Trophy nominee stole the show in Hockeytown last season, and stole the starting job from Chris Osgood with a 37-15-10 record and .924 save percentage.

What they’re missing:
It’s a difficult question to answer. Last year’s main problem was secondary scoring, but that could be solved with the additions of Modano and Hudler. If captain Nicklas Lidstrom and his partner Brian Rafalski stay healthy, their defensive corps is among the best in the league. However, if Howard suffers a sophomore slump (like Columbus' Steve Mason), goaltending could be a serious issue for the Wings.

Players to watch at camp:
It will be interesting to see if a return to his native state will rejuvenate Mike Modano. The better situation to watch will be on the Wings’ blue line. The front four is established with Lidstrom, Rafalski, Brad Stuart, and Niklas Kronwall, but the last two positions are still wide open. Jonathan Ericsson will be expected to improve upon a frustrating 2009-10, and rookies Jakub Kindl and Brendan Smith will make a strong bid to avoid a trip to the Wings’ American Hockey League affiliate in Grand Rapids. Salei will be the veteran presence to lead the youngsters. The Wings will also be looking to shed salary, so forwards like Patrick Eaves and Drew Miller and defenseman Derek Meech will be fighting to keep their jobs come September.

HPT is counting down one team each day before NHL training camps open on Sept. 17. Tomorrow: Edmonton Oilers

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Last Updated on Monday, August 30, 2010 04:12