Detroit – The way Taro Hirose played late last season, there was a feeling the Red Wings might have uncovered a gem.
Hirose was an undrafted free agent out of Michigan State, who entered the lineup in the season’s final 10 games and impressed with seven points (one goal, six assists) and strong instincts.
But this season it's been a struggle.
Hirose entered Sunday night’s game with three points (all assists) in 11 games with a minus-5 rating.
Along with a lengthy list of Red Wings forwards, Hirose simply hasn’t been able to generate offense in what’s been an anemic attack.