Projection unveils the Detroit Red Wings 2025-26 lineup after free agency moves

Detroit chose a fairly cautious approach this offseason, avoiding the bigger names on the market and instead opting to reinforce the depth chart with smaller signings and trades.

In total, general manager Steve Yzerman and his staff pulled off 11 transactions in the past few days, highlighted by acquiring goaltender John Gibson from Anaheim and locking up key returning pieces like Patrick Kane, Albert Johansson, Jonatan Berggren, and Elmer Soderblom.

They also brought in Mason Appleton, James van Riemsdyk, Jacob Bernard-Docker, Ian Mitchell, and John Leonard on short, cap-friendly deals.

According to The Hockey Writers, here's how Detroit is currently projected to line up come opening night:

The biggest takeaway is how the top six is shaping up, with Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, Alex DeBrincat, Patrick Kane, and Elmer Soderblom all returning.

The bottom six has plenty of moving parts, with van Riemsdyk, Copp, and Appleton bringing physicality and grit, while Rasmussen, Compher, and Berggren offer some versatility and scoring depth.

On defense, Bernard-Docker essentially slides into the spot previously held by Jeff Petry, while John Gibson is now set to take over the crease alongside Cam Talbot.

It's arguably the strongest tandem Detroit has had in years, giving hope that the team could avoid extending its playoff drought to 10 years.

However, more changes could come. With seven NHL-caliber defensemen, it wouldn't be surprising to see Steve Yzerman trade either Chiarot or Holl before the next deadline.