Every player's grade for the 2023-24 season (goaltender and defenseman)

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William Austin
June 28, 2024 (10:41)

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The Detroit Red Wings faced significant challenges with their defensive lineup last season, and some players didn't perform well, so here is the grade for each defenseman and goalie for the season 2023-24.

Despite being seen as a veteran D-core with offensive power and defensive ability, the defence was inconsistent. Most of the defensemen either played at extremes, with no middle ground. Goaltending was also not that good. Carrying three goalies had benefits, but questions remained about their reliability in the playoffs.

Defensemen Grades
Shayne Gostisbehere: A-
81GP 10G 46A 56Pts
Brought in for offence, Gostisbehere excelled on the power play but was defensively lacking. He provided significant offensive contributions in his short time with the team.

Moritz Seider: A
82GP 9G 33A 42Pts
Seider was the team's most reliable defenseman, playing difficult minutes against top competition. At 23, he already impressively handles a massive shutdown role.

Jake Walman: B-
63GP 12G 9A 21Pts
Walman showed promise but was hampered by injuries. Despite this, he formed a solid partnership with Seider and contributed offensively.

Ben Chiarot: B-
77GP 5G 15A 20Pts
Chiarot improved significantly from his first season, tightening up his defensive game and playing more physically.

Simon Edvinsson: B-
16GP 1G 1A 2Pts
Edvinsson demonstrated poise and potential in a short stint, though he needs to use his body more effectively.

Jeff Petry: C
72GP 3G 21A 24Pts
Petry was often criticized but was generally in the right position. His performance improved when paired with Edvinsson.

Olli Maatta: C
72GP 4G 14A 18Pts
Maatta was a steady, stay-at-home defenseman, reliable in the defensive zone but offering limited offense.

Justin Holl: D
38GP 0G 5A 5Pts
Holl was defensively better than expected but struggled to stay in the lineup. He's unlikely to return next season.

Goaltenders Grades
Alex Lyon: A
41GS 21W 18L 5T/OTL .906SV%
Lyon stepped up due to injuries, becoming a reliable starter. His performance was crucial for the team's playoff contention.

James Reimer: B-
20GS 11W 8L 2T/OTL .904SV%
Reimer was average but dependable, stepping up when needed, especially during Lyon's burnout.

Ville Husso: C-
19GS 9W 5L 2OTL
Husso struggled with injuries and a rough start. His potential was evident, but injuries hindered his consistency.

The Red Wings' defence and goaltending need improvement for a stronger playoff push next season.

Source: Octopus Thrower
Grading every 2023-24 Detroit Red Wing part 2: defense and Goalies