NHL Rumors: Red Wings could cut ties with two veteran players as GM Steve Yzerman eyes major offseason changes

The Detroit Red Wings’ prolonged absence from the NHL postseason—now stretching to nine consecutive seasons—may trigger significant decisions in general manager Steve Yzerman’s office this offseason. With an urgent need to revitalize the roster and return to a competitive path, rumors of potential personnel changes are gaining traction.

One of the most recent reports, published by Detroit Hockey Now’s Kevin Allen, suggests that Yzerman could be contemplating the difficult move of parting ways with two veterans: Russian forward Vladimir Tarasenko and Swedish defenseman Erik Gustafsson. While bold, such moves would free up valuable cap space and open roster spots for younger, higher-upside players who could inject new life into the Red Wings’ lineup.

“The Red Wings have more than $20 million in cap space to improve that offense, but it also seems plausible they might also buy out Tarasenko as part of an offensive facelift. They need roster spots to bring about change,” Allen wrote, hinting at a potential overhaul to make Detroit more dynamic and offensively dangerous. Indeed, a significant retooling appears to be a top priority for Red Wings leadership.

Tarasenko’s underwhelming impact

Tarasenko’s arrival in Detroit was met with optimism following his Stanley Cup victory with the Florida Panthers in 2024. However, his debut season in a Red Wings uniform fell short of expectations. He recorded just 11 goals and 33 points over 80 games, well below his career norms.

Erik Gustafsson #56 of the Detroit Red Wings plays against the Columbus Blue Jackets on February 27, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

General manager Yzerman acknowledged the underperformance but offered a nuanced assessment. “I think Tarasenko’s play was better probably than his production,” Yzerman said at season’s end. “I would say he was frustrated not being able to produce, and I think that affected his attitude and affected his play.”

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He continued: “You try to reassure him that you’re doing a lot of good things out there and don’t let the missed chances or the inability to score affect your play. I’m hopeful and expecting him to give us more than he did this year because I know we can. I believe he can give us more than what he showed this year.”

Yzerman acknowledges Gustafsson’s value amid buyout speculation

The mention of Gustafsson in offseason rumors signals a potential reshuffling of Detroit’s blue line. While specific details about his performance weren’t included in the report, speculation suggests that Yzerman may be considering a younger, more consistent defensive group moving forward.

“We’ve talked about it down the stretch when Erik Gustafsson was out, we felt we missed him. We missed his mobility, his skating,” Yzerman said, highlighting the veteran’s on-ice value despite possible roster changes.

What’s next for the Red Wings?

The fate of Tarasenko and Gustafsson could ultimately represent a pivotal moment in Yzerman’s tenure—one where the team must decisively shift from hope to results. Whether the Red Wings move forward with a revamped roster or stay the course, this offseason will likely shape the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.