The Detroit Red Wings missed the playoffs once again and could be headed for major changes this offseason. While they are expected to add new talent, NHL insider Rob Couch believes subtraction is also likely, with veteran defenseman Justin Holl identified as a top candidate for a buyout.
Holl, who signed a three-year, $10.2 million deal with Detroit, has underperformed since joining the team. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged under 15 minutes of ice time and recorded just 8 points. Despite high expectations, he’s been a healthy scratch multiple times, and his signing is now widely viewed as a misstep by GM Steve Yzerman.
If the Red Wings proceed with buying out Holl, it would cost them just over $1.1 million in each of the next two years. The move would save them more than $2.2 million in cap space this season, though it would also leave a small cap penalty in the following year.
Holl’s struggles were also publicly acknowledged by head coach Todd McLellan, who didn’t hold back in criticizing his performance during the season. McLellan notably stated in January that Holl “had a terrible night” and needed to take accountability for his play, making it clear that his place on the team was in jeopardy.
Looking forward, GM Steve Yzerman remains committed to building a consistent playoff contender. While this year marked Detroit’s ninth straight season without a postseason appearance, Yzerman emphasized the importance of developing a strong core and drafting well, stating that true success means sustained competitiveness, not just a single playoff berth.
