Detroit Red Wings: Analyzing the Opening Night Roster

By Chris Giles | Oct 12, 2021

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 04: Moritz Seider #53 of the Detroit Red Wings celebrates his second period goal with Filip Zadina #11 while playing the Chicago Blackhawks during a preseason game at Little Caesars Arena on October 04, 2021 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

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On July 22nd, the Detroit Red Wings acquired Alex Nedeljkovic from Carolina. Nedeljkovic was a Calder Trophy finalist and led all NHL goalies in GAA (1.90) and SV% (.932) last year. It doesn’t matter why Nedeljkovic was traded by Carolina because there is no doubt that Detroit solidified the goaltender position with his acquisition.

Nedeljkovic signed a $6,000,000 contract for two years. If he establishes himself as the goalie of the future for the Red Wings, he should be able to help mentor 2021 1st round draft pick Sebastian Cossa when he his ready to make the jump to the pros.

Nedeljkovic will share goaltending duties with veteran Thomas Greiss. With a condensed schedule caused by NHL players playing in the Olympics in February, both goaltenders should see plenty of action during the first half of the season.

Griess is an UFA at seasons end and will be 36 when his contract expires with the Red Wings.

This tandem should provide Detroit with excellent goaltending throughout the season.

Opening Night Goaltenders: Thomas Greiss, Alex Nedeljkovic

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