Detroit Red Wings fans will soon become familiar with defenseman Jacob Bernard Docker, who has been signed to a one-year contract by GM Steve Iselman. Bernard Docker, who played for both the Ottawa Senators and the Buffalo Sabres last season, brings with him experience from 144 NHL games and is eager to add to that total with the Red Wings.
“I’m excited about the opportunities ahead, and this team is heading in the right direction,” he shared. “I can’t wait to join and demonstrate my skills, hoping to make a meaningful contribution.”
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Bernard Docker sees parallels between the young, talented cores he experienced in Ottawa and Buffalo and the promising group in Detroit, which adds to his enthusiasm. “It reminded me a bit of Ottawa, where there was a solid young core, and Buffalo had that too. Detroit is just on the edge, with many skilled players. I’m genuinely excited about fitting in there,” he said.
At the upcoming training camp, Bernard Docker will be competing for a roster spot against Justin Hol and Albert Johansson. One key area he aims to enhance is penalty killing, an aspect where the Red Wings struggled in late 2024, finishing last in the NHL with a 70.1% success rate. “Penalty killing is something I’ve really worked on and believe is a strength in my game. I want to showcase my shot-blocking and stickwork more consistently in the NHL,” he noted.
Drafted 26th overall by the Senators in the 2018 NHL Draft, Bernard Docker broke out in the 2023-24 season, playing 72 games with four goals and ten assists. However, a high-class sprain in early January sidelined him for several weeks. He was later traded to the Sabres on March 7th in a deal involving Josh Norris and Dylan Causeon. During his 15 games with Buffalo, he scored goals and added three assists.
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Fan Take: Jacob Bernard Docker’s addition to the Red Wings injects fresh energy and experience into a team poised for growth. His development in penalty killing and defensive play could be crucial for Detroit’s competitiveness, making this a significant move for hockey fans to watch.
