The Detroit Red Wings took a significant step to resolve their defensive surplus on Tuesday night by trading a defenseman to the Utah Hockey Club for a third-round pick in 2025.
This move leaves the Red Wings with seven NHL defensemen, creating a better chance for veteran Justin Holl and rookie Albert Johansson to play more regularly. The player traded has participated in seven games this season without scoring and is currently in the last year of his contract with a ** $ 3 million cap hit**.
Originally signed to a one-year contract in 2022, he received a two-year extension late in the 2022-23 season. Over his time with the club, he played 157 games, contributing 10 goals and 31 assists.
The Red Wings have established their top four defensemen, with Moritz Seider paired with Simon Edvinsson and veteran duo Ben Chiarot and Jeff Petry forming the second pairing. Erik Gustafsson is expected to handle most games on the third pairing, while Holl and Johansson could be rotated in.
The player traded is Olli Maatta.
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