Patrick Kane’s Red Wings add former Senators defenseman and Brady Tkachuk teammate in major NHL roster upgrade

The Detroit Red Wings have officially signed veteran defenseman Travis Hamonic, a former teammate of Brady Tkachuk with the Ottawa Senators, to a one-year contract with an AAV of $1,000,000, the team confirmed Friday. The move provides the Red Wings with additional depth and experience on a defensive corps that has seen several changes this offseason.

Hamonic, 34, brings a physical presence and veteran leadership to Detroit’s locker room. Last season with the Ottawa Senators, he appeared in 59 games, registering seven points (one goal, six assists), 92 blocked shots, and averaging 17:04 of ice time per game. Known for his stay-at-home style, he is expected to compete for a third-pairing role, though his versatility could prove valuable if injuries arise.

The signing highlights Detroit’s ongoing focus on strengthening its roster around captain Patrick Kane, who enters the new season as the cornerstone of the team’s offense. With Hamonic joining the fold, the Red Wings aim to combine veteran experience with emerging talent to contend for a playoff spot.

How Hamonic strengthens Detroit’s defense

The addition of Hamonic gives the Red Wings eight defensemen under contract, alongside Moritz Seider, Ben Chiarot, Justin Holl, Erik Gustafsson, and prospects like Simon Edvinsson and Albert Johansson. His experience in high-pressure situations, including playoff runs with the Senators, is expected to help guide the younger players on the roster.

Hamonic’s physicality and defensive reliability will also allow Detroit to better protect its crease and support Kane’s offensive output. The Red Wings’ management views this signing as a way to balance youth and experience while preparing for the challenges of the upcoming season.

Looking ahead

With training camp approaching, Hamonic’s role will become clearer as the Red Wings finalize pairings and strategies. Detroit aims to integrate its veterans and prospects effectively, giving Patrick Kane the support needed to make a deep run in the 2025-26 NHL season. The team hopes this mix of leadership and skill will translate into a competitive campaign and renewed playoff aspirations.