Red Wings Secure Ben Chiarot with Three-Year Defense Contract
The Detroit Red Wings have secured defenseman Ben Chiarot with a three-year contract extension, announced on Wednesday. This new agreement carries an average annual value of $3.85 million and will keep Chiarot with the team through the 2028-29 season.
Ben Chiarot’s Role and Performance
Chiarot, a 34-year-old left-handed defenseman standing at 6-foot-3, has become a vital presence on the Red Wings’ blue line. Since joining the team as a free agent in 2022, he has averaged 20:39 minutes of ice time per game. Over the course of his tenure, Chiarot has logged 63 points in 288 games and has been an essential part of the team’s penalty-killing unit.
Chiarot’s Commitment to Detroit
Chiarot expressed enthusiasm about his decision to remain with the Red Wings. “There’s a million reasons why I signed,” he stated. The team environment, supportive staff, and overall happiness of his family in Detroit heavily influenced his choice.
Future Considerations for the Red Wings
Chiarot is set to turn 35 in May, raising questions about how his game will evolve as he ages. While he has been durable, missing only 12 games in three and a half seasons, the Red Wings will need to monitor his performance closely. The team may eventually need to adjust his role within their defensive lineup.
- Chiarot’s contract helps address immediate roster needs.
- Detroit may continue to seek additional defensive talent, particularly a top-four addition.
- Rising salary cap will influence player movement and extensions.
Outlook on the Defensive Line
This extension allows Detroit to focus on securing other key players, such as top-pair left defenseman Simon Edvinsson, who will be a restricted free agent this summer. With franchise defender Moritz Seider signed through 2031, and rising prospect Albert Johansson under contract for another year, the Red Wings are in a strong position for the future.
However, despite this stability, the team will require additional right-side defensemen for the upcoming seasons. Johansson’s versatility could be beneficial, allowing him to adapt to the right side if needed.
Impact on Red Wings’ Prospects
The extension of Chiarot might affect the development of other left-shot defense prospects, including William Wallinder and Shai Buium, who are nearing readiness for the NHL. With Chiarot and Edvinsson ahead of them, playing time may be limited.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Red Wings’ defensive strategy will be crucial in determining their success in breaking a nine-year playoff drought. Chiarot’s experience and leadership will be key assets in this pursuit.
