The Detroit Red Wings have made a surprising move by placing key player on waivers, as reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman. This decision comes just days after Husso’s rough season debut against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he conceded four goals on 14 shots before being pulled from the game. The Red Wings are reportedly looking to retain Husso’s rights by sending him to their AHL affiliate through a loan move, but that would require him to clear waivers first, according to Pro Hockey Rumors.
This development is unexpected, considering Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman’s preseason plans for a three-goalie rotation. In September, Yzerman expressed confidence in the team’s depth, including Husso, veteran Cam Talbot, and Alex Lyon, despite concerns about Husso’s injury history. Yzerman had stated, “Everybody’s healthy today… If everybody’s healthy, we’ll have to make a decision on carrying three or making a move, but we’ll wait and see how things play out,” via The Athletic.
However, Husso’s struggles in the season opener, combined with his ongoing inconsistency and health issues since joining the team, may have forced Detroit’s hand. After signing a three-year, $14.25 million contract in July 2022, Husso’s performance last season was underwhelming, with a .895 save percentage, and his shaky start in 2024-25 left the team in a tough position. Moving him now frees up valuable cap space for the Red Wings, who had $8.1 million tied up in their three-goalie setup before the recent decision.
Ville Husso is on waivers today
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 13, 2024
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