As for the third and fourth lines, things were still uncertain on Monday morning, not least because of injuries. Givani Smith, Michael Rasmussen and Adam Erne were all participants in practice, but their statuses are unclear for Thursday. Thus, the Red Wings had 14 forwards in attendance. Erne and Rasmussen skated with Sam Gagner on what figures to be the third line. Smith, Vladimir Namestnikov and Carter Rowney all rotated in at various points.
In the end, the Red Wings decided to keep all three of Smith, Ramussen and Erne while sending Veleno to Grand Rapids. That decision, though, is by no means permanent - Veleno could easily shuttle between the AHL and NHL based on his play and that of others. The Red Wings' goal is to get him playing time, whether that be in Detroit or in Grand Rapids.
"Two things can happen if Joe were to get sent down," Blashill said. "One, he may be in a role that's higher than he is here, which hopefully would help maximize his development. And two, it gives us more organizational depth, too. Because he is a guy that can get sent down without exposing him to waivers, so those are things that can go into decisions."
Rowney and Smith, on the other hand, would both have been exposed to waivers if sent to Grand Rapids.
"When guys play great, they find a way on the team," Blashill said.
Raymond has found his way. Now it's about what he does with it.