Former Winnipeg Jets forward Andrew Copp linked to Detroit Red Wings

Going home is a popular trend this year, and Andrew Copp may be the most recent example. Copp will reportedly sign with the Detroit Red Wings when opportunities arise, returning him to the city where all of his NHL aspirations first materialized. Copp, who was raised in Ann Arbor, eventually decided to don the maize and blue by enrolling at the University of Michigan for three seasons. There, he swiftly surpassed expectations as a fourth-round NHL draft pick and became one of the most versatile players in college hockey.

The Winnipeg Jets were prepared to start him right away when Copp was ready to graduate from college, so he completely avoided the minor levels (he would play eight games for Manitoba, but not until after his rookie season). After playing more than 450 games for the Jets, Copp was dealt to the New York Rangers as a result of being on the verge of free agency.

In the final stretch, he scored 18 points in 16 games for his new squad, proving that he might be a superb complementing component towards the top of a lineup. Copp was prepared for the free market after accruing another 14 in 20 postseason games and playing center for the majority of the time. His value to the Red Wings is likely to be in the middle of the ice as a player who can kill penalties, contribute to the power play, and play any of the three forward positions. Unexpectedly, Red Wings center Dylan Larkin, who is about to sign a contract deal to secure his future with Detroit, was one of his teammates with Michigan.

Should Copp sign, the Red Wings' forward group will start to take shape fast because of the abundance of talented wingers who will surround him.