Detroit Red Wings players Evgeny Svechnikov and Tyler Bertuzzi and coach Jeff Blashill answer questions Thursday, March 29, 2018, at KeyBank Center. Video by Helene St. James, DFP. Helene St. James/Detroit Free Press
The Detroit Red Wings started their 2015 NHL draft by selecting a Russian who appealed in skill and strength.
It marked the third straight year the Wings held onto their first-round pick rather than trade it to stoke a playoff run, reflecting a shift in strategy as management recognized a need to emphasize drafting and developing.
Forward Evgeny Svechnikov was the first of six picks the Wings made.