The Detroit Red Wings have infused their blueline with a measure of old-school grit.
On Friday, the club announced the signing of veteran defenseman Travis Hamonic to a one-year, $1 million contract.
Hamonic’s name may not ignite excitement across the broader hockey landscape, yet his résumé speaks to durability and experience. Approaching his 35th birthday, he has logged 15 NHL seasons, spending the last three-plus campaigns with the Ottawa Senators.
In 2024–25, he appeared in 59 games, contributing seven points while excelling in a less glamorous but essential capacity—killing penalties. While Hamonic is no Cale Makar, his skill set addresses an area in which Detroit struggled mightily last season, and his addition represents a practical, targeted upgrade.