The Detroit Red Wings have signed veteran forward James van Riemsdyk to a one-year, $1 million contract. The deal was announced Tuesday, July 1, 2025, as NHL free agency began.
Van Riemsdyk, 36, is a seasoned NHL veteran with over 1,000 games played. Last season, he played for the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he recorded 16 goals and 20 assists for a total of 36 points in 71 games.
Throughout his NHL career, van Riemsdyk has played for the Philadelphia Flyers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, and Columbus Blue Jackets. He has accumulated 327 goals and 338 assists for 665 points in 1,082 regular-season games. Additionally, he has 21 goals and 15 assists for 36 points in 82 Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Van Riemsdyk was drafted second overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2007 NHL Draft. He also represented the United States at the 2014 Winter Olympics.
The Red Wings have also signed defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker and Ian Mitchell to one-year deals. Steve Yzerman is opting to make additions from the thrift store. Of the four players added, including John Leonard, van Riemsdyk is the most intriguing.
Some analysts suggest that van Riemsdyk could become this season's Vladimir Tarasenko. The Red Wings should avoid giving van Riemsdyk top-six minutes. If he plays on the third line, plays a heavy game, and posts 15-16 goals again, it's a wise investment. At this juncture of his career, van Riemsdyk is a solid complimentary piece.
