Red Wings: Rasmussen Extended to High-Value Three-Year Contract

Just after the roster freeze lifted, the Detroit Red Wings announced that restricted free agent Michael Rasmussen has been signed to a three-year contract.

According to Puckpedia, the contract is for $4.38 million, with an annual cap hit of $1.46 million.

Rasmussen, a first round pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, showed impressive growth in his game this year. He started a few games with the Grand Rapids Griffins at the beginning of the season, but he quickly made the transition to the main roster in Detroit. With the Red Wings, Rasmussen played 40 games with the Detroit Red Wings this year, scoring three goals and nine assists.

While the point totals were not necessarily impressive, Rasmussen improved just about every aspect of his play. Not only did he improve his skating, he also began to utilize his massive 6-foot-6 frame to win puck battles and set effective screens at the front of the net.

At 22, Rasmussen still has plenty of room for development. For just $1.46 million a year, the organization has a developing player that can center the lower lines of the team, with the potential for more in the future. Rasmussen’s two-way style and massive frame are a great fit for Jeff Blashill’s offensive system.

It seems as though Rasmussen is officially a piece of the rebuild – for now. If he continues his upward trend of development throughout his three year contract, Rasmussen has a chance to become on anchor on the lower “grind lines” of a playoff contender, or an experienced and versatile center that can bring up the play of fellow line mates in any situation.

This is the first signing of the 2021 offseason, which means plenty is to follow. With such a cheap deal, GM Steve Yzerman still has plenty of precious cap space to work with in the coming weeks. More deals are sure to follow.