These ex-Red Wings are unrestricted free agents. Is there a chance any of them could make a comeback in Detroit?

Of the 34 players who suited up for the Detroit Red Wings in the 2020-21 season, only four remained with the team in the 2023-24 season: Dylan Larkin, Michael Rasmussen, Joe Veleno, and Robby Fabbri. This turnover highlights the significant number of player transitions that occurred during the recent phase of Detroit’s rebuilding process.

Additionally, there are 23 former Red Wings players who are unrestricted free agents for other teams this offseason. This number excludes the 11 unrestricted free agents from this season who have previously played for the Red Wings. While it’s common for a rebuilding team to witness player movements, the abundance of players with ties to Detroit scattered across the league is noteworthy.

Could there be reunions in store? Let’s explore the 23 former Red Wings free agents and assess their potential fit with the current team’s needs.

Forwards:

Tyler Bertuzzi
Bertuzzi, a former power forward for the Red Wings, spent last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs and reportedly aims to stay there. However, if contract negotiations falter, his close ties with Dylan Larkin could make him a valuable addition to Detroit’s top six.

Anthony Mantha
After a stint with the Washington Capitals, Mantha ended up with the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite his scoring prowess, his defensive capabilities may not align with Detroit’s current strategy, unless significant improvement is shown.

Jakub Vrana
Vrana’s turbulent history with Detroit, coupled with the team’s existing roster, makes a reunion seem unlikely. However, the right landing spot could help him showcase his talent.

Dominik Kubalik
Although Kubalik showcased his skills alongside Dylan Larkin, defensive concerns may outweigh his scoring ability in Detroit’s evaluation.

Others such as Tomas Tatar, Sam Gagner, Tomas Nosek, Adam Erne, Criscuolo, Mitchell Stephens, and Turner Elson may not offer significant upgrades to the roster.

Defensemen:

Dennis Cholowski
While Cholowski struggled to secure a spot in Detroit’s defense, a return as a depth player in Grand Rapids could be considered if the price is right.

Gustav Lindstrom
Much like Cholowski, Lindstrom’s potential return may lean more towards an investment rather than an immediate impact player.

Others like Brendan Smith, Troy Stecher, Marc Staal, Steven Kampfer, Xavier Ouellet, and Daniel Renouf may not offer substantial improvements over internal options.

Goaltenders:

Alex Nedeljkovic
Despite a swift change in his Red Wings career trajectory, Nedeljkovic’s resurgence with the Pittsburgh Penguins could provide depth in Detroit’s goaltending lineup, though his preference may lean towards a backup role elsewhere.

Calvin Pickard
Pickard’s reliability as a backup goalie could be valuable, but he may seek a similar role with another team, potentially remaining with the Edmonton Oilers.

Eric Comrie and Magnus Hellberg could serve as cost-effective third goaltender options, although Sebastian Cossa may be a preferable choice for Detroit at this stage.