The Detroit Red Wings entered free agency season with some realistic options to materially improve the NHL roster. Instead, it’s mostly been a swing-and-miss on positional upgrades. The status quo has largely been reinforced for another year, however.
Disappointing returns in a weak free agent market
After retaining players like Patrick Kane and Jonatan Berggren, Detroit headed into the free agent frenzy. Fans were eager to see a big name added to the blue line or the top six forward core. Unfortunately, that has not yet happened for the Red Wings.
With only a few names available, there were GMs far more aggressive who were able to make the deals. Most recently, K’Andre Miller went to the Carolina Hurricanes after threats of an offer sheet brought the Rangers to the table. Yzerman was rumored to have put together a “significant offer”, but it did not pan out.Â
Five Players signed for depth roles
The most recognizable name coming to Detroit is James Van Riemsdyk. The 36-year-old left wing seems to be a replacement for the outgoing Tarasenko. In nine fewer games, Van Riemsdyk scored five more goals (16). He also averaged over two minutes less per night. Â
There were three players who have seen limited action in the NHL brought on board. Defensemen Ian Mitchell, Jacob Bernard-Docker and left wing John Leonard. Mitchell and Leonard may be bound for the AHL. Bernard-Docker carries an interesting amount of potential. The former first round pick had a 72 game season in 2022-23 seeing over 16 minutes in average ice time. A strong camp could lead to an opportunity in Detroit.
The final signing so far was Mason Appleton. The 29 year old right shot center was signed to a two-year deal on Wednesday.  In Winnipeg Appleton was deployed as a third line center, and that may be the likely assignment in Detroit.Â
Red Wings counting on “net gains”
The most impactful acquisition for the Red Wings still seems to be goalie John Gibson. The draft day trade saw the Red Wings send Mrazek and a couple of picks to Anaheim for the veteran netminder. Gibson may be the biggest “get” for Steve Yzerman this summer.
In frank terms, Detroit needs goalies who are comfortable standing on their head. Gibson is no stranger to that particular type of workload. The blue line did not made a significant defensive addition that can move the needle for the rebuild.
A historically bad penalty kill sought to undo one of the best power plays in the league last year. The Red Wings PK wasn’t just the worst in the league, it was the worst in decades. The inability to capture a top 4 blue liner is perhaps the most disappointing “miss” for Yzerman and co. Gibson may need a career year to get this team to the post season.
