---

Detroit Red Wings 2025 Offseason: Trade and Signing Updates… read more…

The Detroit Red Wings entered the 2025 offseason with a clear mission: build on their progress, address defensive inconsistencies, and add veteran leadership without sacrificing their growing youth movement. General Manager Steve Yzerman has remained aggressive but calculated, shaping a roster that aims to return to postseason relevance while staying competitive in a rapidly evolving Eastern Conference.

Patrick Kane Returns for Another Run

One of the biggest headlines of the offseason is the return of future Hall-of-Famer Patrick Kane, who re-signed with Detroit on a one-year deal worth $3 million, plus performance bonuses that could bring the total to $7 million. At 36, Kane proved last season he still has plenty left in the tank, notching 21 goals and 59 points in 65 games after hip resurfacing surgery.

Kane’s chemistry with Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond was evident, providing a top-line spark that Detroit sorely needed. Beyond his on-ice contributions, Kane’s leadership and postseason pedigree make him an invaluable asset as the Red Wings push toward playoff contention.

Goaltending Shake-Up: Mrazek Out, Gibson In

In a move that surprised many, the Red Wings traded veteran goalie Petr Mrazek to the Anaheim Ducks and acquired John Gibson in return. The swap addresses Detroit’s need for a more consistent presence in the crease. While Gibson had struggled statistically in Anaheim in recent years, much of that was due to the team’s defensive woes. The Wings are betting that a stronger system and lighter workload could help Gibson return to form.

This trade also signals that Detroit is ready to make a playoff push now, rather than relying on developing young goaltenders.

Vladimir Tarasenko Traded to Minnesota

Just before free agency began, the Wings dealt Vladimir Tarasenko to the Minnesota Wild for future considerations. Tarasenko, who was acquired midseason in 2024–25, provided secondary scoring but was inconsistent in his role. The move clears over $5 million in cap space and opens up opportunities for younger forwards like Jonatan Berggren and Carter Mazur to step into top-nine roles.

Elmer Söderblom Signs Two-Year Extension

The 6-foot-8 forward Elmer Söderblom inked a two-year extension on July 2. His size and soft hands make him a unique power-forward prospect. Though he bounced between Grand Rapids and Detroit last season, the Wings appear committed to giving him a full-time NHL role moving forward. His improved skating and net-front presence could provide a major boost to the bottom six.

Youth Locked In: Johansson, Berggren & More

In addition to Söderblom, Detroit re-signed several young players:

• Albert Johansson, a poised left-shot defenseman with elite puck-moving skills, signed a bridge deal expected to lead into a top-four role.
• Jonatan Berggren, who has hovered on the edge of full-time NHL duty, received a two-year contract, reflecting Detroit’s intent to finally cement his place in the lineup.
• Ian Mitchell and Jacob Bernard-Docker, acquired in minor trades last season, also re-signed to provide depth and competition on the blue line.

These signings highlight the Red Wings’ long-term development strategy. Yzerman is clearly invested in the core of young talent he’s spent the last several years accumulating.

New Faces: Appleton and JVR

Detroit made a couple of low-risk, high-upside free agent additions:

• Mason Appleton, a gritty, versatile forward with penalty kill value, was brought in to solidify the third or fourth line.
• James van Riemsdyk (JvR), once a consistent 20-goal scorer, was signed to a one-year deal. Though clearly past his prime, JvR brings size, leadership, and power-play experience that could pay dividends in limited minutes.

Both contracts are team-friendly and add depth without limiting cap flexibility for future moves.

Rumors and Speculation: Bigger Moves Still Brewing?

While the Wings have been active, whispers continue about potential blockbuster trades. Detroit is reportedly “eyeing” Anaheim forward Troy Terry, a dynamic right-winger who could cost upwards of $49 million on a long-term deal. Adding a prime-age, two-way winger with All-Star upside would significantly strengthen their top six.

On the blue line, the Wings are rumored to be pursuing Noah Dobson from the Islanders—a 25-year-old right-shot defenseman who could immediately anchor the top pair. Yzerman has reportedly offered a package including JT Compher, Jonatan Berggren, and draft capital.

While talks remain speculative, these targets reveal that Detroit isn’t done upgrading key positions.

Cap Management: Yzerman’s Masterclass

One of the understated stories of the offseason is Yzerman’s cap management. By offloading Tarasenko, acquiring Gibson at a favorable price, and signing short-term, incentive-based deals with veterans, Detroit retains flexibility for either a midseason trade or a bigger move before training camp.

With major contracts like Lucas Raymond’s upcoming extension looming, Detroit is balancing present needs with future planning.

Looking Ahead

The Red Wings are no longer just rebuilding—they’re entering the next phase. With a healthy mix of veterans, promising prospects, and a front office unafraid to swing big, Detroit’s 2025–26 season could be their most competitive in over a decade.

If Gibson rebounds and Kane replicates last year’s form, the Wings could finally return to the postseason, validating the patient vision Yzerman laid out years ago.

---

Let me know if you’d like a companion article on their rumored trade targets or a breakdown of their projected 2025–26 lineup.