While no decision has been made yet by Zach Parise about where he will sign, it's starting to become clear that he probably won't end up joining the Detroit Red Wings. This is all based on rumors and speculation right now, but it seems like Parise is favoring a return to the New Jersey Devils or going somewhere like Pittsburgh or Minnesota. While nothing is definitive yet, The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta reports that things aren't looking good for the Red Wings' pursuit of Parise.
No confirmation on this yet, could be wrong, but I'm led to believe the Red Wings are out of the Parise race.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) July 2, 2012
Detroit's still very much a big player in the Suter sweepstakes. Parise, though, doesn't look likely (still possible, but I'm told no)
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) July 2, 2012
If the Red Wings are in fact out of the running for Parise, they will have to start looking at other options to upgrade their top-level talent at forward. Perhaps a trade for Rick Nash or Bobby Ryan will be explored, or perhaps the Red Wings will decide to make an offer to free agent Alexander Semin.
In any case, as of right now it looks like the Red Wings' hopes of making a splash in free agency will now come down to landing Suter.
For more on the Detroit Red Wings, check out Winging It In Motown. You can check out more hockey news from around the league at SB Nation's NHL page.