Detroit Red Wings: Top 5 Worst Contracts in Team History

When one thinks of the Detroit Red Wings what does one think of? Loyalty? Championships? Longevity? Those three are certainly credible but how about money spent, as in contracts? Year after year, every single roster in the NHL changes due to trades, free-agent signings, and retirements. For the Red Wings, the organization has brought in players that have not been only loyal but have been a mainstay with the franchise.

The Detroit Red Wings, like any other organization, have signed free agents to better their team and have an upgraded chance at the Stanley Cup. However, like other teams, the contracts signed do not always work out. Those players are then traded, not re-signed, or are playing fewer minutes due to less production. The Detroit Red Wings have signed some amazing talent who have helped them achieve greatness at the end of the season. But what about those that did not work out?

The Top 5 Worst Contracts In Detroit Red Wings History

The five players listed below were brought in as a free-agent or re-signed because of the previous season’s production. Some of these players are Hall of Famers and have won Stanley Cups, and others were depth pieces that did not work out. This happens in hockey, not all signings bring the outcome that was expected, so they part ways and hope for a better outcome.

The Detroit Red Wings are careful who they bring in because of their loyalty and dedication to players who will make a difference. The players on this list have had success at one point or another, getting the attention of Red WIng’s management. Two forwards, two defensemen, and a goaltender represent the five worst contracts in franchise history. These five players have performed above expectations somewhere but for some reason did not work out in the Red Wings system. The five below are all good, established, and experienced players in their own right.