If it isn't one thing for the Detroit Red Wings, it's another.
First came the Dylan Larkin request, followed shortly after by Steve Yzerman's resignation. From there, what was seen as a long offseason quickly tailspinned into inaction and insanity. Now that we're days away from training camp, the time that was on Detroit's side is all but nonexistent.
If the Red Wings don't sign Simon Edvinsson or extend Alex DeBrincat in a week, they'll lose an important year of contract negotiations.
Fortunately, one of the next Red Wings general manager's many problems appears to be much smaller than anticipated.
According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, Simon Edvinsson is going to camp whether he's signed or not.
Hearing that RFA Simon Edvinsson intends to still be at Detroit’s training camp next week even if still unsigned. Patiently waiting for the Red Wings GM situation to iron itself out before resuming negotiations.
September 8, 2026Where the Red Wings are with Edvinsson's extension
Edvinsson has been in a bit of a holding period with the organization for obvious reasons. Since then, the only updates we've received have been through his manager, who has been waiting for a new GM to take the helm so they could finally hammer out contract details. Edvinsson has made no indication that he plans on signing an offer sheet anywhere else.
But with no GM ready - and no updates from the front office regarding the search - the holding period continues.
With that said, however, Edvinsson showing up at camp without a contract is a clear indication that a team player. His previous statements, coupled with the statements of his agent, show that he wants to be part of the long term solution in Detroit rather than take the easy way out.
The risks of keeping Edvinsson unsigned
With that said, there is an inherent risk with Edvinsson unsigned. Even if he doesn't plan on signing any offer sheets, the team has a little under a week to get him in an eight year deal as opposed to a seven year contract. That extra year of control could make all the difference in the long run as the team slowly moves its way towards being a legitimate contender. It's much easier to ice a great team with a $7-8M top pairing defenseman as opposed to a $10-12M defenseman.
Then there's the other worry: injuries.
Edvinsson already suffered a late season injury last season, which hampered his production down the line. If he were to suffer another at camp without a contract, it might affect the number he signs at. This could be a boon for the organization, but Edvinsson's camp may take it as a slight and ask for shorter term. A shorter term bridge deal would then open up a pathway to a much higher extension or - worse yet - free agency.
The next GM needs to make it a priority to lock down Edvinsson long term the moment he takes the helm.
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