5/6 Notes

... Apparently, Dmitri Bykov wants to return to the Wings after taking a two-year contract with Ak Bars Kazan of the Russian Elite League (reported to be worth $1 million) last summer. Bykov just turned 27 and was a solid young defensemen in his time here in Detroit. I was sorry to see him go and I wouldn't mind seeing him back, if the Wings can work out a reasonable deal. If they do bring him back, that will probably effect their decisions regarding Chris Chelios and Jamie Rivers. Rivers will become an unrestricted free agent this summer because the Wings aren't likely to give him the $750,000 qualifying offer his age (29) has earned. He only made $450,000 this past season and I think he needs another year to prove whether he can earn more or not. The Wings have until July 15th to sign Bykov. ... Pavel Datsyuk is committed to returning the team next year as well. His 51 point season triggered a clause in his contract which made him an restricted free agent and canceled the $1.5 million option left on his contract for next season. The Wings will offer him $1.7 million by July 1 and try to get him a long term deal this summer. ... Nick Lidstrom and Peter Forsberg will join their fellow Swedes in the Czech Republic for the World Hockey Championships. They will make it there in time to play Saturday against the US in a semifinals game. (above from mlive) ... Drew Sharp talks a little about the future of the Red Wings and calls them Kris Draper's team in his column today. ... The Free Press has their final grades for the Wings in today's edition.