Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman remains open to bolstering the team further, even though most impactful free agents have already either re-signed with their current teams or been traded, as seen with players like Mitch Marner and Kandre Miller. Yzerman emphasized his priority to add top-six forwards and top-four defensemen, with a particular focus on the defensemen.
“The key is finding a player who fits well,” he stated. “Right now, our biggest needs are a top-four defensive player, preferably with the right-handed shot.”
Fortunately for Detroit, there are right-handed defensemen rumored to be available who match this profile. Rasmus Andersson of the Calgary Flames, a right-handed defenseman, has been linked to trade talks recently. He is entering the final year of his contract.
Currently, the Red Wings have about $12 million in cap space for future moves, following the acquisition of John Gibson and several free-agent signings. Andersson has consistently averaged 24 minutes per game over the past three seasons, scoring in double digits twice, including 11 goals in both the 2022-23 and 2024-25 seasons, and nine points in 2023-24.
Detroit’s right-handed defenseman options at the NHL level are limited to Moritz Seider and Justin Holl, with Holl not considered part of the team’s long-term plans. Holl’s contract expires next offseason, which will free up additional cap space, though the salary cap is expected to rise as well.
At 28 years old, Andersson still has plenty of hockey ahead and can share defensive responsibilities with Seider. He plays across all situations—strength, power plays, and penalty kills. Flames GM Craig Conroy recently indicated uncertainty about whether Andersson would remain with Calgary by the time training camp starts in September.
With room on the salary cap and a strong prospect pool, Detroit could leverage players like Andersson or prospects to address their defensive needs.
Fan Take: This potential move is exciting for Red Wings fans eager to see the team strengthen its blue line with a proven, right-handed defenseman. Adding a player like Rasmus Andersson could be a game-changer for Detroit, improving their chances to compete at a higher level and bringing fresh energy to the sport.
