Colaiacovo Destined for Detroit?

Finally – NHL news to discuss that doesn’t involve petty negotiating between wealthy owners and wealthy players. A recent report from The Fourth Period reports that sources have indicated that the Detroit Red Wings have made a formal offer to St. Louis defenseman Carlo Colaiacovo.

A few weeks ago I held a discussion weighing the pros and cons of Carlo Colaiacovo returning to St. Louis. Summarized, the pros were that the Blues knew what they would receive from Carlo and would enjoy the offensive talent and chemistry Colaiacovo would bring to the lineup. The cons were that the Blues wouldn’t be upgrading their defense and the glaring issue of Carlo’s fragile nature.

As The Fourth Period mentions, Colaiacovo is one of the lone defensive options left on a pretty depleted free agent market. Fans in St. Louis might downgrade Colaiacovo due to his injury history but the fact remains that Carlo is one of the few available options that could provide a boost to a team lacking defense.

Carlo to Detroit makes a lot of sense. The Red Wings are struggling to find a way to replace the retired Nicklas Lidstrom and the departed Brad Stuart. While the Red Wings could pursue other options out there most would require the Wings to give up some of their top prospects. Colaiacovo is a much more affordable option.

As for the Blues, one has to imagine the team will pursue a new face if Colaiacovo ends up with a new team. Jay Bouwmeester has been one of the most discussed names but the Blues would likely have to part with some of their best prospects in order to acquire him. It was safe to assume that Ian Cole would play a bigger role for the Blues in 2012-13 but if Colaiacovo departs and the Blues decide to stand pat, we could see Cole thrust under immense pressure in a full-time role. Also, the Blues could be vulnerable due to some poor depth defensively if Colaiacovo leaves and no other resources are brought in. Honestly, who wants to see Jeff Woywitka suit up for the Blues in an important game?

Fans love to rip on Colaiacovo plenty as is. One can only imagine what the response will be if he suits up in a Detroit uniform.