January is officially in the books! The month in review: we all failed our New Years resolutions because of course we did, Mike Green made the all-star team, and Jaromir Jagr rode off into the sunset in what looks to be the end of a Hall-of-fame career in the NHL (fun fact: he scored his last NHL goal against Detroit). On the prospect front, as usual, I take a look at three Wings prospects who were “successes” and three prospects who were “struggles”.

After a solid start to the month, posting two goals in two games, the Guelph Storm shipped Smith off to the Kitchener Rangers, where he really took off.

In nine games with the Rangers, Smith has scored seven points (5 goals and 2 assists), including a shootout winner. His presence has been felt, and he’s brought exactly what the Rangers were looking for. “Givani will be a welcome addition to our already deep group of forwards,” Said general manager Mike McKenzie. “He will be extremely valuable to our team down the stretch and makes us much harder to play against.”

As Michael Scott once said “Well, well, well, how the turntables”. After months of struggling, Svechnikov has flipped the switch, and has been a key part in the Griffins going 8-3 in their last eleven games. As for himself, he posted five points (1 goal and 4 assists) in the eleven games. Not spectacular, but it’s a step in the right direction, after his brutal start to the year. Will he get a quick stint in Detroit later this year? Possibly, but he’s making progress, which is the most important.

Despite only getting five games in the NHL, Turgeon looked like he belonged. He didn’t record a point, but he did the little things, was blocking shots, and was sound defensively. Unfortunately, he has been subject to management going all-in for the National yo-yo competition. Bouncing back-and-forth from Detroit and Grand Rapids, he should be a regular after the trade deadline, and be a perfect 4th line penalty killer. “I’ve always felt he carries himself with a good, quiet confidence. He’s not awed by the NHL. He can walk in a locker room and feel totally confident. And having a bunch of guys that he’s played with makes that easier – and that’s an important part in call-ups, that guys get comfortable as quick as possible so they can play to the best of their ability.” Head coach Jeff Blashill said.

Webb has struggled almost all season, and was in dire need of a change of scenery. That would end of happening, in the form of a trade from the Hamilton Bull-Dogs, to the Saginaw Spirit. But it hasn’t faired well for the Stoney Creek ON. native. He’s yet to produce a point on his new team, and his defensive game has been shaky. He has been able to stay healthy — which was an issue in his draft year — but with no other signs of improvement, this pick isn’t looking like a good one for management.

Believe it or not, there weren’t any other prospects I felt truly struggled in January, to the point where I think it is worthy of pinpointing. Enjoy it, because it won’t last!