Tomorrow’s Red Wings: McIsaac Still in Prospect Mix

(Editor’s Note: This is another installment of Detroit Hockey Now updates on some of the Detroit Red Wings’ top prospects. Today’s subject is defenseman Jared McIsaac of the Grand Rapids Griffins).

The best indication that the Detroit Red Wings haven’t given up on Jared McIsaac, 23, is that he is still on the Red Wings’ roster. The Red Wings qualified him on June 30 and he accepted that offer Friday. He signed him Friday to a one-year, two-way deal for $787,500 (according to Puckpedia.com).

NHL general managers always believe you can’t have too much defensive depth. While 2018 second rounder McIsaac is no longer considered a high level prospect, he offers 141 games of American Hockey League experience.  He was the second-highest scoring defenseman  (three goals, 22 points) on the Griffins this past season.

UPDATE: The #RedWings today signed defenseman Jared McIsaac to a one-year two-way contract extension. pic.twitter.com/782qEPNzuy

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) July 15, 2023

McIsaac is a savvy, poised player, comfortable playing in all defensive situations. This past season, he became the third defenseman in Griffins history to score two overtime goals in a season. He joined Bryan Helmer (2005-06) and Filip Hronek (2018-19).

A few key Detroit defensive prospects will be on the Griffins’ roster, but McIsaac will still get his fair share of playing time for the Griffins.

Analysis

McIsaac has played in the AHL long enough to be considered a depth defenseman for the Red Wings. He could be a short-term help should the Red Wings run into injury or illness issues.

At his best, he can be a solid performer, a decent first passer and an experienced one-on-one defensive player.

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Forecast

McIsaac probably offers more value to the Griffins than he does to the Red Wings. The Griffins need a quality season from McIsaac to give them a push back into the AHL playoffs. He’s an effective AHL player. McIsaac helps both offensively and defensively.

To the Red Wings, McIsaac is an insurance policy against numerous injuries. If the Red Wings are beset by injuries, he could be on the short list for promotion. His experience gives him the edge.