In this series, we take a look at each team and see what they’ve done over the offseason. Next up is the Detroit Red Wings.
Key additions: John Gibson, Mason Appleton, James Van Riemsdyk, Jacob Bernard-Docker, Ian Mitchell
The Red Wings finally addressed the team’s biggest need in acquiring a true starting netminder in John Gibson. While past his prime, he is a major upgrade over what Detroit has had to work with in net the past few seasons. The Wings also added some role players in guys like Van Riemsdyk and Appleton. Getting the Patrick Kane extension done was big for the club, his presence has been felt on this upcoming core.
Key subtractions: Vladimir Tarasenko, Craig Smith, Tyler Motte, Jeff Petry, Petr Mrazek, Alex Lyon
Detroit have not lost anything of major value this offseason. They bought out Tarasenko who had a disappointing season last year in the top 6. It remains to be seen whether JVR will be able to fill that hole and provide the offense that Vlad lacked. Otherwise they lost a couple rotational goalies and some depth pieces.
Highest draft pick: Carter Bear, 13th overall
Salary cap space: $12 million
Staff: The Wings will be rolling with mostly the same staff next season. They did add Michael Leighton as their new goaltending coach, who let in Patrick Kane’s 2010 Cup winning goal. Current head coach Todd McLellan took over midseason last year after former coach Derek Lalonde was let go after a slow start. The seat is getting hotter for GM Steve Yzerman as the club has not made the postseason since 2016.
Other: It would not be surprising to see Detroit make more moves this summer. They are a team with cap space that is knocking on the door of a playoff berth with more lineup holes to fill. Either another top 6 forward and/or top 4 dman should be items on the agenda for Motown.
All transactions available via puck pedia
