Red Wings Place Defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker On Waivers

The Detroit Red Wings take on the San Jose Sharks tonight, and before action starts, they have made a roster move. The team placed depth defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker on waivers. 

Bernard-Docker has been a depth option for the Red Wings and has played 63 games for a team that has struggled to find itself in postseason action, even with the rebuild taking shape. 

The Red Wings signed the blueliner to a two-year, $1.6 million contract, which expires at the conclusion of the 2027-28 season. 

Bernard-Docker (DET) on waivers

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 17, 2026

While it might be a bit early to suggest signs of a larger move ahead, the fact is that the team will be burying his cap hit in Grand Rapids. 

Bernard-Docker was selected 26th overall in the 1st round of the 2018 NHL Draft by the Ottawa Senators, and since then has become a journeyman in the league. 

He's suited up for three teams in the NHL, namely the Sabres, Senators, and his current team, the Red Wings. 

Bernard-Docker has played a total of 207 games in the NHL and scored 29 points (7 goals, 22 assists) in a depth role throughout his career. 

He could find a new home on a rebuilding team or a roster that's lacking in bottom-four talent. It's not difficult to think that he'll clear waivers and head back to AHL Grand Rapids soon.