Analyzing Detroit Red Wings UFAs Before Free Agency

Apr 29, 2021; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Detroit Red Wings goaltender Jonathan Bernier (45) reaches out to make a save during the third period against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 29, 2021; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Detroit Red Wings goaltender Jonathan Bernier (45) reaches out to make a save during the third period against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
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The 2021 Free Agency frenzy begins on July 28.  Detroit Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman will be extremely busy after the Expansion and Entry Drafts conclude.  Yzerman must first decide which current Red Wings Unrestricted Free Agents (UFA) he will sign.

Here is a look at Detroit’s Current UFA’s and a prediction as to what Yzerman will do with each player.

Jonathan Bernier

Age: 32

2021 Stats

GP: 24

Record: 9-11-1

GAA: 2.99

SV%: .914

2021 Salary: $3,000,000

Advantages of Signing

Re-signing Jonathan Bernier provides Detroit with a solid goaltending duo with Thomas Greiss. He has been a leader on the ice, and may have been the MVP on the Red Wings this year. The Red Wings do not currently have any prospects ready to play in the NHL, so signing a veteran goalie is important in order to keep this young team competitive throughout the season.  Detroit has plenty of cap space, so signing Bernier should occur after the expansion draft in July.

Disadvantages if Signing

Bernier has been injury prone during the duration of his current contract in Detroit.  He has only played over 40 games once during the past three seasons.  His asking price and the duration of the contract may not align with what Yzerman is willing to pay him.

Prediction

Jonathan Bernier is signed to a two year deal with Detroit for $7.2 million and a cap hit of $3.6 million annually.