Looking back at the performance of Steve Yzerman and the Detroit Red Wings this off-season
The Detroit Red Wings narrowly missed the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, tying with the Washington Capitals in points but falling short in regulation wins.
Despite this, their progress is evident, having recorded their first 90-point season in nine years. General Manager Steve Yzerman's long-term strategy, often called the "Yzerplan," continues to guide the team through its rebuild. However, Detroit remains an underdog for the 2025 playoffs, especially after a summer of significant roster turnover.
Draft Picks:
1-15: F Michael Brandsegg-Nygård, Mora IK, Sweden
2-47: F Max Plante, USA U18, NTDP
3-80: F Ondrej Becher, Prince George, WHL
4-126: G Landon Miller, Soo, OHL
5-144: D John Whipple, USA U18, NTDP
6-176: F Charlie Forslund, Falu IF, Sweden
7-203: F Austin Baker, USA U18, NTDP
7-208: D Fisher Scott, Dubuque, USHL
Yzerman again selected an under-the-radar European player with their first-round pick, Michael Brandsegg-Nygård. While this draft class lacks immediate star power, the Wings hope their selections will develop into reliable NHL contributors.
UFA Signings:
Key signings include Patrick Kane's re-signing and Vladimir Tarasenko's, Cam Talbot's, and Tyler Motte's additions. Kane and Tarasenko bring veteran experience and playoff pedigree, which is crucial for a team looking to break its playoff drought. Cam Talbot joins a crowded goalie room, challenging Ville Husso and Alex Lyon for the starting position.
Trade Acquisitions:
Detroit's lone trade acquisition was Gage Alexander from Anaheim, who exchanged for Robby Fabbri. Still in development, Alexander adds depth to the team's goaltending prospects.
Salary Cap Outlook:
With $17.65M in cap space, Detroit needs to finalize contracts with RFAs Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider, which could limit their cap flexibility for the upcoming season.
Key Questions:
Is Cam Talbot the Starter?
Talbot's experience brings competition to the crease, with Husso and prospect Sebastian Cossa also vying for the starting role.
Which Prospects Will Emerge?
With roster spots open, prospects like Simon Edvinsson, Nate Danielson, and Michael Brandsegg-Nygård can break into the NHL lineup during training camp.
As seen: Pro Hockey Rumors
Summer Synopsis: Detroit Red Wings
| POLL | ||
How do you rate the off-season for Steve Yzerman and the Detroit Red Wings? | ||
| Good | 25 | 36.2 % |
| Mid | 40 | 58 % |
| Bad | 4 | 5.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
