Red Wings' Extend Top Forward John Leonard

 

The Detroit Red Wings season is over, and general manager Steve Yzerman isn't resting on his laurels. The team finished 41-31-10 and sixth in the Atlantic Division. 

He's made a quick jump to extend one forward, who was a bright spot for the team this season. Leonard earned AHL All-Star accolades this year, scoring 53 points (32-21) in 46 games this season with the Grand Rapids Griffins. 

Leonard would be clutch when the team needed him as an injury replacement for the Red Wings, while Patrick Kane was out. He'd score 4 points (2-2) in 11 games. 

His efforts this season have paid off, as GM Steve Yzerman has signed him to a one-year contract, extending his stay in the Red Wings organization beyond the 2025-26 season. 

Leonard's last contract paid him league minimum, $775K with an average annual value, and expires at the end of 2025-26.

 

UPDATE: The #RedWings have signed John Leonard to a one-year contract extension. pic.twitter.com/aSctRQHkTo

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) April 16, 2026

John Leonard: A Future Red Wing?

While this isn't an indictment of the Yzerplan, Leonard deserves another look in the NHL after his excellent play in the AHL this season. He's been part of a Griffin's team that has put themselves in the record books. 

Selected 182nd overall in the sixth round of the 2018 NHL Draft by the San Jose Sharks, Leonard has been an AHL journeyman the majority of his career and hasn't broken through into the league, despite his best efforts. 

With a Red Wings team that needs to experience massive turnover, will Leonard get a shot after training camp in 2026-27?

Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images