The Detroit Red Wings have made a notable improvement in their goaltending by acquiring John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for their 2027 second-round pick and 2026 fourth-round pick. Gibson, 31, remains a solid presence despite the emergence of Lucas Dostal in Anaheim and recent re-signing moves by the Red Wings’ goaltender Hasso.
Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman hinted at the possibility of further trades to enhance the team’s forward and defensive lines, emphasizing the importance of finding players who fit well within the team. Currently, after signing Gibson, extending Patrick Kane’s contract, and adding free agents James Van Reems Dick, Mason Appleton, Jacob Bernard Docker, Ian Mitchell, and John Leonard, Detroit has over $12 million in salary cap space.
Detroit’s primary goal is to acquire a top-six forward who can make an immediate impact. Among the top candidates is Dallas Stars’ Jason Robertson, who is likely available due to Dallas’s salary cap constraints. Robertson, who scored 35 goals in the 2024-25 season, has a contract with a $7.75 million cap hit and is a free agent in 2026. His local ties to Detroit, having played youth hockey nearby, make his acquisition a potentially easier fit.
Another Michigan-connected player of interest is Brian Rust of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who hails from Pontiac and played for the Detroit Honey Baked Hockey Club. Rust, part of back-to-back Stanley Cup-winning Penguins teams, has scored over 20 goals for six consecutive seasons and brings a right-handed shot to the Red Wings lineup. He has three years left on his contract with a $5.25 million cap hit.
Rickard Rakell, also with the Penguins, is rumored to be available and could be another valuable addition. Rakell set a new career goal high with 35 goals in the 2024-25 season and is known for his quick release and power play effectiveness. His contract carries a $5 million cap hit for three more years.
Fan Take: This series of moves highlights Detroit’s aggressive strategy to rebuild into a competitive force quickly, blending veteran talent with local roots. For hockey fans, it signals an exciting potential revival of a storied franchise and could reshape the competitive landscape in the coming seasons.
