Detroit Red Wings defenseman deemed first player to not return in 2025-26 season per reports

Steve Yzerman is reportedly preparing to part ways with 33-year old defenseman Justin Holl, who has one year left on his $3.4 million contract.

This season, the 33-year old has recorded just one goal and four assists in 67 games this season, and does not provide much defensive capabilities to make up for his lack of production.

Last season with the Red Wings, the former Maple Leaf registered five assists in 38 games as he was healthy scratched majority of the time.

After signing a multi-year deal with Detroit in the summer of 2023, this defenseman has became one of the most disliked players on the roster.

Holl was not the most liked in Toronto as well, seemingly putting into question what the Detroit Red Wings thought they were getting in his acquisition.

Holl's buyout would only cost the Red Wings $1.13 million on the cap for next season and the 2026-27 season.

Although that is not a cheap price to pay a player that's no longer with your team, it's honestly a chance for Steve Yzerman to replenish himself after making the mistake of signing Holl, with a one-million dollar price tag.

The Red Wings would also save a whopping $2.2 million on their cap space next season, giving them more flexibility to acquire a true defenseman that'll lead the Red Wings to postseason success.