Oilers, Jets Forwards Among Major Misses as Red Wings GM Faces Offseason Scrutiny…read more…
As the dust settles on the opening days of NHL free agency, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves in the crosshairs of scrutiny—particularly General Manager Steve Yzerman—after missing out on several high-profile forwards from the Edmonton Oilers and Winnipeg Jets. Fans and analysts alike are voicing concern that Detroit’s hesitation or missteps may cost the team vital momentum after a promising 2024–25 campaign that saw them narrowly miss the playoffs.
A Summer of High Hopes Turns Tepid
The Red Wings entered the offseason with cap space, a young core brimming with potential, and a clear need: top-six forward talent capable of complementing stars like Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. Speculation was high that Detroit would aggressively pursue some of the marquee names on the market—especially with several key contributors from playoff teams becoming available.
But as the first wave of signings wrapped up, the names headed elsewhere.
Detroit reportedly showed strong interest in Warren Foegele, fresh off a career year with the Edmonton Oilers. The 28-year-old winger notched 20 goals and played a pivotal role in Edmonton’s deep postseason run. He eventually signed a four-year, $18 million deal with the New Jersey Devils—an attainable figure, given Detroit’s cap room.
Another target, Sean Monahan, inked a two-year, $10 million deal with Winnipeg. Monahan, once a top-line center with Calgary, resurrected his game last season and drew wide interest. Detroit was believed to be in the mix but ultimately lost out, raising eyebrows around the league.
Then came the biggest stunner: Tyler Toffoli, a proven scorer with championship pedigree, landed in Carolina for a moderate three-year, $14.25 million contract. Yzerman reportedly had internal discussions about Toffoli, but no formal offer ever materialized.
What Went Wrong?
Multiple league sources suggest Yzerman is staying true to his long-term rebuild philosophy, preferring not to overpay or rush the process. But critics argue that Detroit is now in a position where adding proven NHL talent is necessary to bridge the gap between a developing team and a playoff-caliber one.
“This was the summer to strike,” said one anonymous NHL executive. “They’ve got prospects, cap space, a market that’s hungry for postseason hockey. You can’t sit on your hands forever.”
The Red Wings have several young forwards—Marco Kasper, Carter Mazur, and Nate Danielson—knocking on the NHL door, but there’s no guarantee of immediate impact. By bypassing established forwards, Yzerman is placing a significant bet on internal development and patience.
Fan Reaction: Growing Frustration
Red Wings fans, known for their passionate support, are growing increasingly vocal. Social media lit up in frustration as other teams scooped up talent Detroit desperately needed.
“Yzerman is building something, no doubt,” tweeted one fan. “But how long do we wait? Larkin isn’t getting younger. The East is only getting stronger.”
Another fan on Reddit wrote, “Missing on Foegele and Monahan is one thing—but not even offering Toffoli a deal? Come on.”
While some fans continue to trust the “Yzerplan,” others believe the time for cautious moves has passed.
What’s Left on the Market?
With the top-tier free agents off the board, the Red Wings may have to shift their strategy. Trade options remain a possibility, with rumors that Detroit could be eyeing a deal for a top-six winger from a cap-strapped Western Conference team.
Free-agent options are dwindling, but names like Max Comtois, Danton Heinen, and Philipp Kurashev could offer cost-effective depth. However, none are likely to make the kind of impact fans were hoping for.
There’s also speculation that Yzerman may be planning to make a major trade closer to training camp. Detroit has one of the deepest prospect pools in the league and several expendable defensemen, such as Justin Holl or Olli Määttä, who could be part of a package deal.
Yzerman’s Track Record Still Buys Time
Despite the current criticism, Yzerman’s reputation as one of the league’s top executives remains intact. Since taking over in 2019, he’s overseen a significant rebuild, drafting well, managing the cap effectively, and turning the team into a respected competitor.
His biggest move of last summer—trading for Alex DeBrincat—was viewed as a masterstroke. However, with DeBrincat’s production cooling in the second half of the season, and without added reinforcements this summer, there’s concern that Detroit could stagnate in a highly competitive Atlantic Division.
Eyes on Training Camp
With no splashy additions on the books, training camp will offer insight into Yzerman’s vision. If prospects like Kasper and Danielson show NHL readiness, Yzerman may feel vindicated. But if the team starts slow or shows a lack of scoring depth, the offseason misfires will come under even greater scrutiny.
Ultimately, Detroit’s fortunes in 2025–26 may hinge not just on what was added, but on what was missed.
Final Word
The Red Wings had the opportunity—and the resources—to make a leap forward this offseason. But with Oilers and Jets forwards among the missed targets, fans are left wondering if patience is still a virtue or a path to perpetual mediocrity.
Only time will tell if Yzerman’s restraint was the right call or a costly misstep.
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Red Wings fans are frustrated after Detroit misses out on key forwards from the Oilers and Jets. Is the Yzerplan still on track—or has patience gone too far?
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