Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman Unveils Offseason Priority
Detroit Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman revealed the franchise’s goal of signing or trading for a goaltender during an online meeting with local media on Friday, June 21.
“We’re exploring the goalie market, and if a good opportunity arises—whether through trade or free agency—we’re open to it,” Yzerman stated.
Currently, the Red Wings have two goalies under contract, Ville Husso and Alex Lyon, while James Reimer will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, according to CapFriendly.
Even with two goaltenders in place, Yzerman highlighted the possibility of adding a third but clarified he doesn’t expect a regular three-goalie rotation.
“I don’t see us operating with three goaltenders throughout the season,” Yzerman noted. “That wasn’t the plan last year either, but injuries forced our hand.”
Yzerman also hinted at the type of goalie the franchise might pursue and the resources he’s willing to invest.
“I don’t foresee using significant assets to acquire an older goaltender who may not be with us in the next few years,” Yzerman remarked.
Red Wings Linked to Ducks’ John Gibson?
One potential target for the Red Wings is Anaheim Ducks’ John Gibson. Ducks GM Pat Verbeek told The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun at the NHL combine that Gibson is available for trade.
“John’s still a really good goalie,” Verbeek commented on the market for Gibson.
Rumors about Gibson have been circulating since June 2022, when Gibson denied requesting a trade in an interview with Eric Stephens of The Athletic, following a report from Sportsnet’s Nick Alberga. Gibson mentioned his agent, Kurt Overhardt, informed him of the rumors, which he dismissed as untrue.
Gibson, 30, is under contract until the 2026-27 season with a $6.4 million annual cap hit. He had a 13-27-2 record in the 2024 season, with a .888 save percentage and a 3.54 goals-against average. The Red Wings have $29.3 million in cap space, sufficient to acquire Gibson or another goalie through trade or free agency.
Challenges in Acquiring John Gibson
Gibson’s hefty contract poses a significant hurdle for Yzerman, who is reluctant to give up valuable assets for a third goalie. The Ducks would likely demand a top prospect and/or a high draft pick for Gibson, making a trade with Detroit challenging.
Yzerman also expressed reservations about acquiring an older goalie due to potential long-term impacts on the organization.
“I don’t anticipate using prime assets to acquire an older goaltender,” Yzerman reiterated.
Despite these obstacles, Yzerman remains open to enhancing the team’s goaltending situation if the price is right.
“Goaltending is crucial. If we bring in another goalie, we’ll figure out the details as we go,” he concluded.
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