This summer has been more challenging than expected for the Detroit Red Wings. Perhaps, this development should not be a surprise given the way their 2025-2026 campaign concluded. The team missed out on the postseason after holding a playoff position in the standings for every month until the last in April. This disappointing finish to the season has led to a turbulent offseason, headlined by Steve Yzerman stepping away from the general manager role. The future of many players with this squad is in question, especially after captain Dylan Larkin requested a trade from the organization.
Another Red Wings player whose future with the club is questionable is Alex DeBrincat. The 28 year old Michigan native is coming off of a career year, in which he amassed 41 goals and 44 assists for 85 points in 82 games. The star forward is heading into a contract year as he will be in need of an extension upon conclusion of this season, although he is eligible to be extended this year. With the departure of his longtime running mate Patrick Kane to the Chicago Blackhawks, this has caused some concern over whether DeBrincat will stick around in Detroit.
The good news for Red Wings fans is it sounds more likely than not that he will extend with the team. Detroit insider Bob Duff had this to say regarding DeBrincat on NHL Tonight: "As long as the Wings are willing to pay him market value, I think he'll lean towards staying here…if they want him, and I think they do." Duff added that he got the impression having spoken to DeBrincat that he has interest in re-signing with Detroit: "From talking to Alex at the end of the season, he wants to be here, he's from Michigan…he likes having his family close."
DeBrincat should be in line for a major raise on his next deal, compared to his current $7.875 million contract. He has been a consistent offensive producer throughout his three year tenure with Detroit. He is a player the team cannot afford to lose, especially if Larkin is dealt as expected. There should be no hesitation when it comes to meeting DeBrincat's asking price.
The Red Wings are a team that is difficult to project as the 2026-2027 season approaches. It is not clear whether this is a team that expects to compete for a playoff spot or enter a rebuild. This will be a question that will likely not be answered until the team finds a new GM and the Larkin situation reaches a conclusion.
The results the past three seasons of DeBrincat's stint with the team would indicate that Detroit is not far away from contention, however the wildcard gap has increased. They missed out on the playoffs by six points this past season and five points in 2024-2025. The 2023-2024 season was the most painful as the team tied with the Washington Capitals in points, but missed out by account of having less regulation wins.
Overall, this team has clearly been knocking on the postseason door in recent years. However, they continually drop the ball as the games become more meaningful late in the season. That would suggest that a re-tool may be in order. It will come down to how the new GM moves forward with this roster.
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