NHL Free Agency: Red Wings Linked To One Specific Name This Offseason
The Detroit Red Wings have been linked to veteran defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov this upcoming offseason, according to Max Bultman of The Athletic.
With the team pushing to end their playoff drought and solidify their blue line, Gavrikov has emerged as a potential fit for Detroit’s system.
Bringing a steady presence and ability to log tough minutes, the 28-year-old left-shot defenseman would add defensive reliability to a group that has struggled with consistency in its own zone. “If the Red Wings are looking to add a physical, shutdown presence on the back end,” Bultman wrote, “Gavrikov is a name that makes a lot of sense.”
Huge contract year for Vladislav Gavrikov. pic.twitter.com/pV33Aggdu6
— Rono (@RonoAnalyst) March 26, 2025
Detroit’s interest in Gavrikov comes as GM Steve Yzerman continues to look at options that could bolster the roster without having to give up key pieces of the rebuild.
Gavrikov, who’s spent time with both Columbus and Los Angeles, has shown he can thrive in a second-pairing role while playing against top competition. His defensive awareness, shot-blocking ability, and penalty-killing experience check several boxes for a Detroit team aiming to take the next step.
This season, Gavrikov has four goals, 27 total points, a +21 plus/minus rating, 134 blocked shots and 46 hits across 74 games played.
While no deal is imminent, league insiders suggest Gavrikov could be a top target if the Kings make him available via trade or explore cap-saving moves.
Part of why Kuzmenko has been able to fit in so well is likely that he played with Vladislav Gavrikov over in the KHL.
— Oliver Figlin (@ClarkeForNorris) April 2, 2025
They were teammates at SKA St Petersburg in Gavrikov’s final season in Russia (2018-19).
Fantastic connection by the Kings scouting department.
Adding Gavrikov would not only strengthen Detroit’s depth on the blue line, but it would also bring a stabilizing partner for one of their younger defensemen, like Moritz Seider.
As Bultman noted, “It’s the kind of move that could help the Red Wings take another meaningful step forward.”
Over his three seasons in Los Angeles, the 6'3, 220 lbs defenseman has recorded 13 goals, 59 total points, a +42 plus/minus rating, 274 blocked shots, and 119 hits across 171 games played.
Photo Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
