Wings not close to signing Markov
It doesn’t sound like Danny Markov will be re-signing with the Wings based on current talks. The Wings don’t need Markov, but obviously would like his physical presence on the blueline. GM Ken Holland last talked to Markov’s agent last week.
“He told me what he’s looking for; we’re not even close to that,” Holland said. “Right now, we’re satisfied with our defense. We’d like to have Danny back, but if he signs somewhere else, we’re comfortable.”
He said he’d like to add some depth on defense, but only at the right price. He offered Markov a two-year deal at the draft in June, apparently at around the same $2.5 million-a-year salary he earned last season.
“He told me the salary range he’s looking for. We don’t have any interest in that salary range,” Holland said.
Meanwhile, Holland made offers of one, two and three years to defenseman Derek Meech, a restricted free agent.
“We’re close, but he’s not done,” Holland said.
Meech will likely earn a roster spot in training camp as he would have to clear waivers should he not get a spot. Most likely, he would be claimed and the Wings would then lose him without getting anything in return. Ansar Khan believes this leaves Kyle Quincey the odd man out, despite the solid job he did during the playoffs last season when defensemen Niklas Kronwall and Mathieu Schneider were injured. Quincey can return to Grand Rapids so unless there is an injury, he’ll likely play for Grand Rapids again.
Khan also questions why Holland would go after Markov when they can’t really afford giving up a defensive roster spot. Plus, their offense is the bigger question. However, the team is content with the current roster and will likely do something closer to the trade deadline as they want to see how rookie Igor Grigorenko plays.
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