The Red Wings’ path to beating out those teams likely depends on two big factors: how much improvement they get from their young players and how big an upgrade John Gibson turns out to be in goal.

After the Detroit Red Wings give RFAs Albert Johansson, Jonatan Berggren and Elmer Soderblom minimal contracts, and re-sign Patrick Kane, the available cap space could be closer to $14 million.

The 2025 NHL Draft concluded Saturday and while it will take some time to truly determine the real winners and losers of this class, we have some snap reactions based on the weekend’s events.

The Sabres and Red Wings have a moderate rivalry built over 161 matchups with Detroit holding an all-time 76-65-13-7 record.

The Wings hold their first pick at 13th, and also have selections at 44, 75, 76, 119, 140, 172, 204 and 211. Rounds 2-7 are on June 28. LET'S BREAK IT DOWN: Detroit Red Wings would be better off ...

The Red Wings re-signed defenseman William Lagesson to a two-year contract extension. The Detroit Red Wings had a a busy day on Friday, June 27, as the NHL staged the first round of the 2025 draft.

Regardless, the Red Wings need to add more offense to the blue line, and that is what Byram would do. Detroit enters the offseason with just over $21.3 million in cap space.