The Red Wings haven't made any huge splashes so far in free agency, but rather, they've made multiple low-key signings. Bringing in Mason Appleton from Winnipeg on a two-year contract with an AAV of $2.9 million is one of those under-the-radar moves.
While it isn't the flashiest addition, it does help bring some much-needed grit to Detroit's roster - and possible help to a Detroit penalty kill unit that was the worst in the NHL last season.
Speaking with the media on Thursday morning, Steve Yzerman confirmed the role the Red Wings have in mind for Appleton. He stated they are looking for the 29-year-old forward to spend time on a checking line that can help chip in offensively, while also spending some time on the penalty kill.
Steve Yzerman confirms that they're looking for Mason Appleton to play on the PK and on a checking line that can maybe chip in a bit of offense. #LGRW
— Ryan Hana (@RyanHanaWWP) July 3, 2025
Appleton brings help to Detroit's league-worst penalty kill
Last season, the Red Wings had the worst penalty kill in the NHL. Their penalty kill percentage for the season sat at 70.1%, which was dead-last in the league.
It goes without saying that if the Red Wings want to advance to the postseason for the first time since 2016, the penalty kill percentage needs to go up. Appleton's physical style of play can help with that effort.
As it stands, Daily Faceoff has Appleton slated on Detroit's top PK unit with former Winnipeg teammate Andrew Copp and defensemen Ben Chiarot and Mortiz Seider.
It will be interesting to see exactly how he is utilized, but Red Wings fans can expect the newcomer to play on the penalty kill early on in 2025-26.
Appleton brings a tougher, grittier direction for the Red Wings
Appleton brings a well-rounded game to Detroit that could settle in nicely to a spot on the third line. He plays with an edge, and has handed out 176 hits over the past two seasons.
He dished out 28 hits over 13 postseason games last season, showing he can bring some extra juice when the stakes are higher. Coming to a Detroit team that is hungry for playoff hockey, Appleton also brings valuable postseason experience, as he has 32 career postseason games under his belt.
This past season, Appleton averaged 14:50 of ice time over 71 games for the Jets. He scored 10 goals and tallied 12 assists for 22 points. His best offensive season came in 2023-24 when he totaled 36 points on 14 goals and 22 assists. The Red Wings would likely be pleased with 20 points from Appleton, but if they can get 25-30, Detroit fans would be thrilled.
He isn't going to light up the score sheet, but if he can bring some physicality and strong defensive play while providing a little bit of offense and helping out on the penalty kill, that could just be the right formula for a successful signing.
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