The Detroit Red Wings are in need of greater contributions from Andrew Copp. At 29 years old, Copp serves as a versatile center who can also play on the wing, playing a crucial role as a third-line center, providing energy, and excelling as a penalty killer. Notably, during the 2023-24 season, the line featuring Copp centering Michael Rasmussen and Christian Fischer proved to be the team’s most effective and consistent.
However, Copp’s contract, amounting to $28.125 million over five years, appears substantial considering his role. Signed as a free agent during the summer of 2022, Copp, a native of Ann Arbor with roots in suburban Detroit, showcased potential to evolve from a third-line checking center into a more offensively impactful player. His previous seasons with the Winnipeg Jets and New York Rangers displayed promise, with 53 points (18 goals and 35 assists) in 72 games during the 2021-22 season and 39 points in 55 games the season before.
With the Red Wings seeking a solid No. 2 center behind Dylan Larkin, general manager Steve Yzerman secured Copp with an annual contract averaging $5.625 million. However, Copp’s offensive production fell short, tallying only nine goals and 33 assists for 42 points in 2022, and 33 points (13 goals and 20 assists) in the following season. While Copp missed training camp during his debut season in Detroit due to abdominal surgery, his performance still does not align with his salary.
Despite the addition of another former Michigan player, J.T. Compher, last summer, the Red Wings continue to search for a legitimate second-line center to complement Larkin. Copp’s role remains crucial, but he needs to elevate his offensive output to justify his salary.
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