Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland said he plans to reach out to about a half-dozen forwards.
“I'll express interest, see what they're thinking,'' Holland said.
His biggest need is a second-line center, since it appears Valtteri Filppula won't return.
The Red Wings have interest in Florida's Stephen Weiss. Other centers scheduled to hit the market include Mike Ribeiro (Washington), Matt Cullen (Minnesota), Derek Roy (Vancouver) and Tyler Bozak (Toronto). Patrik Elias reportedly is close to re-signing with New Jersey.
The Red Wings are out of the bidding for Vincent Lecavalier, who is seeking a five-year deal for $5 million per season, which is a longer term and more money than Detroit is willing to offer. Lecavalier's agent told teams he has identified a club he wants to play for. It's believed to be Dallas.
The Red Wings had some interest in left wing David Clarkson of New Jersey a couple of weeks ago, but it has cooled considerably as they've done their due diligence. They're not prepared to meet his anticipated demands of a long-term deal (5-6 years) for more than $5 million per season.
Boston right wing Nathan Horton reportedly is seeking a five- or six-year deal worth $6 million a season, which is more than the Red Wings are prepared to give to a player with injury issues (shoulder, concussion).
The Red Wings have some interest in right wing Jarome Iginla, the longtime face of the franchise in Calgary who was traded to Pittsburgh late last season. But there are concerns about whether Iginla, who is 36, can play an up-tempo game at both ends of the ice.