“Yzerplan” may include Kaprizov’s blockbuster bid – Hockey writer – Detroit Red Wings

Detroit’s reconstruction continues, but even with some key additions this summer, Red Wings remain a team in the playoffs. Goalkeepers John Gibson and Patrick Kane’s re-signation was a positive move, but they’re unlikely to get Detroit to cross Detroit into the upper echelon of the NHL.

GM Steve Yzerman hasn’t paid less than $12 million in salary cap space, but hasn’t made full push yet. One has to wonder if he is waiting for something, or if the news that Kirill Kaprizov rejected $16 million in Wild, Minnesota this week could have caught Yzerman’s attention.

The red wings seem to be in the way

This summer offers Detroit a major opportunity to increase influencers, especially those considered for salary caps. When Yzerman was active, he missed some bigger goals, including a failed attempt to interact with Star Winger Nikolaj Ehlers before signing with Carolina.

SportsNet’s Elliotte Friedman noted that while Ehlers may never be a realistic option, Detroit cannot ensure the conversation highlights the Detroit challenge as they try to attract larger free agents.

Is Yzerman waiting for the right move? Given that there hasn’t been a huge difference yet, is he hesitant?

Kaprizov will be regarded as Yzerman

Enter Kirill Kaprizov.

The Minnesota wild superstar reportedly turned down an eight-year, $128 million extension because he knew the deal would make him the highest-paid player in NHL history. Even if the validity of the report is unclear – GM Bill Guerin is playing the report, like the report is incorrect and the negotiations are not bad – the evidence seems clear: Kaprizov can’t get the quote he wants, or he’s willing to test the highest value of his market.

For Detroit, a team with hat flexibility and an established reputation as a patient but serious suitor, Kaprizov represents a rare opportunity. Starting in 2026-27, the Red Wings are expected to have $44 million in blocking space. The $16 million he reportedly refused was more sold if they wanted, and that wasn’t a problem.

Paying Kaprizov, there is a lot of money and risks. Meanwhile, landing wingers will increase the team’s missing dynamic players, one with elite scoring talent. Add him to the current player combination in the lineup, which arguably turns the wings into a legitimate playoff contender.

This is a player who obviously thinks he is worth it. Kaprizov probably has no problem, putting a team on his back and leading them offensively. A large contract has a significant responsibility, and he seems to be ready for it.

Signing him will accelerate Detroit’s competitive schedule and clearly indicate the organization’s chaotic vision. They have a team full of potential, but he will be the star, offensive core rally. Dylan Larkin, Alex Debrincat, Lucas Raymond and Patrick Kane will end on another level.

Is Detroit a Detroit window this summer?

Of course, all of this depends on how things are going between the wild and Caprizov. The two sides may figure out the gap between them and he can reach an agreement before the season begins. If this didn’t happen and the trade deadline approached, insiders were already laughing at the idea that Guerin might want to get a list of destinations Kaprizov was willing to go.

Again, Detroit may not be on that list. But if it’s about money, then red wings have it. They have many.