DETROIT RED WINGS MAKE SPLASH IN FREE AGENCY, SIGN STAR FORWARD TO 7-YEAR, $70 MILLION CONTRACT….

*DETROIT RED WINGS MAKE SPLASH IN FREE AGENCY, SIGN STAR FORWARD TO 7-YEAR, $70 MILLION CONTRACT*

Detroit, MI – The Detroit Red Wings have made a major splash in free agency, signing star forward Johnny Gaudreau to a 7-year, $70 million contract.

The deal, which was announced on Wednesday evening, is one of the largest in Red Wings history, and is a clear indication that the team is committed to returning to contender status.

Gaudreau, a 29-year-old left winger, has been one of the most consistent goal-scorers in the NHL over the past five seasons, tallying at least 30 goals in four of those years. He has also been a key contributor on the power play, and has averaged over 70 points per season during his career.

“We are thrilled to welcome Johnny Gaudreau to the Detroit Red Wings,” said Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman. “He is an elite player who will bring a high level of skill and competitiveness to our lineup.”

The signing of Gaudreau is a major coup for the Red Wings, who have been working to rebuild their roster after several years of struggling to find consistency. The team has been active in free agency, signing several key players in addition to Gaudreau.

Gaudreau is expected to make his Red Wings debut on October 12, when the team opens the 2024-25 season against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Little Caesars Arena.

*CONTRACT DETAILS:*

– 7-year contract worth $70 million
– Average annual salary of $10 million
– No-trade clause for the first 5 years of the contract

*REACTION FROM AROUND THE LEAGUE:*

– “Johnny Gaudreau is an elite player who will make an immediate impact on the Red Wings,” said NHL analyst Pierre McGuire. “This is a huge signing for Detroit.”
– “The Red Wings are making a serious push to return to contender status,” said ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski. “The signing of Johnny Gaudreau is a major statement of intent.”