NHL Rumors: 3 Red Wings Contract Extension Candidates

The Detroit Red Wings have some decisions to make when it comes to their roster this offseason. After a collapse during the final stretch of the season, the Red Wings missed the playoffs and should be looking to make upgrades this offseason because of it.

However, they are also entering the summer with a few contract extension candidates to watch. Let's discuss them now.

Patrick Kane

Kane has made it clear that he is open to staying put with the Red Wings, and it would not be particularly surprising if he did. While he had some tough moments in 2025-26, he was still a solid offensive contributor for Detroit. In 67 games, he had recorded 16 goals and 57 points. On a one-year, affordable deal, it would make sense for the Red Wings to re-sign him.

Simon Edvinsson

Edvinsson is undoubtedly a player who the Red Wings will sign to a contract extension this offseason. The pending restricted free agent is a very important part of the Red Wings' blueline and is a candidate for a long-term extension because of it. In 72 games this season with Detroit, the 6-foot-6 defenseman had nine goals, 25 points, and a plus-12 rating.

James van Riemsdyk

van Riemsdyk could be a dark-horse extension candidate to watch from the Red Wings. While he is no longer a legitimate top-six NHL forward, he proved to be a solid depth player for Detroit this season. On a cheap one-year deal, the Red Wings could consider keeping him around due to his solid secondary scoring ability. In 72 games this season, he had 15 goals and 31 points.