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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Marc Staal

Age: 34

GP: 56

G: 3

A: 7

PTS: 10

2021 Salary: $5,700,000

Advantages of Signing

Marc Staal is a veteran of 14 NHL seasons.  He is a dependable left shot defenseman.  Re-signing Staal provides prospects an opportunity to continue to ripen in the AHL and in Europe.

Disadvantages to Signing

Signing Staal is going to be expensive and long-term.  Staal is also not as mobile as he was earlier in his career and is often beaten by the faster and younger forwards in today’s NHL.

Prediction

Marc Staal leaves Detroit as an UFA and signs with another team.