3 Detroit Red Wings Who Earned a Bigger Role for the 2025-26 Season
As the Red Wings continue rebuilding, it’s clear that several young players are ready for increased responsibility. With a core that’s still developing, three rising talents stood out last season and are poised to take on greater roles when the new campaign begins in four months.
With free agency approaching, don’t expect GM Steve Yzerman to bring in veterans who could block these players’ paths. These three not only showed promise—they also look like long-term pieces for the franchise. So, who are they, and what makes them deserving of more ice time in 2025-26?
Marco Kasper
This one feels like a no-brainer. Kasper had a breakout season after Todd McLellan took over behind the bench, tallying 37 points and 19 goals in 77 games. He played a mix of middle-six and top-six minutes, averaging 15:27 per night—expect that to increase to around 17 minutes next season.
Kasper also impressed in the face-off circle for someone so young, winning 45% of 281 draws. His physical style brought much-needed grit to a roster that lacked it, as shown by his 156 hits. While he wasn’t in the Calder conversation, his growth was steady and consistent. A big leap in his age-21 season feels likely.
Simon Edvinsson
Though Edvinsson didn’t dominate headlines, his performance was rock-solid in all areas of the game during his age-21 season. He finished with seven goals and 31 points while logging 21:07 of average ice time, becoming a dependable presence across all three zones.
Despite the team’s defensive struggles, Edvinsson was a bright spot—he posted a plus-12 rating, an 11.0% on-ice shooting percentage at even strength, and a 91.4% on-ice save percentage. These numbers reflect how positively he impacted play. Look for his ice time to rise to the 22:30–23:00 range in 2025-26, as he continues developing into a key top-four defenseman.
Carter Mazur
Mazur’s NHL debut was unfortunately cut short after just 70 seconds due to injury. However, he bounced back strongly with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins, scoring eight goals and 15 points in 20 games—proof that he’s ready for another shot in Detroit.
With training camp around the corner, Mazur should be healthy and competing for a roster spot. Once he earns one, he’s a solid bet for 12–13 minutes per night to start, with room to grow. Had he stayed healthy this past season, he likely would’ve contributed to the team’s playoff push. His tenacity, scoring touch, and playmaking ability make him a player to watch.
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