The Detroit Red Wings have officially added a former first-round talent to their organizational depth, announcing on Sunday afternoon that they have reached an agreement with forward Chase Stillman. The Chase Stillman Detroit Red Wings partnership begins with a one-year, two-way contract that provides the 23-year-old winger with a fresh opportunity to establish himself within the Original Six franchise's system.
Breakdown of the One-Year Deal
The financial terms of the agreement reflect a standard structure for players transitioning between the American Hockey League (AHL) and the NHL. According to the team's announcement, the contract is valued at $850,000 at the NHL level. Because it is a two-way deal, Stillman will receive a different, specified salary while playing in the minors, though the primary focus remains on his potential to compete for a spot on the Red Wings' NHL roster during training camp.
This type of contract offers the Red Wings significant flexibility. By signing Stillman to a one-year term, Detroit General Manager Steve Yzerman and the front office are bringing in a high-pedigree player on a low-risk, high-reward basis. If Stillman performs well, he provides the big-league club with affordable depth; if he requires more seasoning, he can be assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins to continue his development.
Chase Stillman’s Path to the Detroit Red Wings
Stillman arrives in Detroit with a notable draft resume. He was originally selected in the first round (29th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft by the New Jersey Devils. A St. Louis native, Stillman spent his developmental years honing a physical, energetic style of play that made him a coveted prospect during his draft year.
Standing 6-foot-1 and weighing approximately 185 pounds, Stillman has built a reputation as a hard-working forward who can play a variety of roles. His journey since being drafted in 2021 has seen him transition from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL)—where he played for the Sudbury Wolves and Peterborough Petes—to the professional ranks. During his time in the OHL, Stillman was known for his competitive edge and ability to contribute in high-pressure situations, including a deep playoff run with Peterborough.
The move to the Detroit Red Wings marks the first major change of scenery in Stillman's professional career, as he moves from the organization that drafted him to a Detroit team that has been aggressive in stockpiling young talent with NHL experience or high-round draft status.
Understanding the Two-Way Contract Structure
For fans following the roster moves this offseason, the "two-way" designation is a critical component of this signing. In the NHL, a two-way contract does not mean a player is exempt from waivers, but rather that they are paid a different salary depending on which league they are playing in. Here is what that looks like for Stillman:
- NHL Salary: $850,000 (pro-rated based on days spent on the active roster).
- AHL Salary: A lower, predetermined amount paid while assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins.
- Contract Length: One year, making Stillman a restricted or unrestricted free agent at the conclusion of the 2026-27 season depending on service time.
This structure is particularly beneficial for a player like Stillman, who is 23 years old and looking to prove he belongs in a full-time NHL role. It allows him to earn a competitive professional wage while giving the Red Wings the ability to evaluate his fit within their specific tactical schemes without a long-term financial commitment.
Building Depth in the Red Wings Organization
The addition of Stillman is part of a broader strategy by the Detroit Red Wings to ensure they have a surplus of capable forwards available. The NHL season is notoriously grueling, and injuries frequently test a team's bottom-six forward depth. By signing a former first-round pick who is just entering his physical prime, Detroit is betting on Stillman's pedigree and the possibility of a breakout season.
Stillman's arrival adds to a competitive environment in Detroit. He joins a group of forwards that includes a mix of established veterans and emerging prospects. His ability to play a physical game and potentially contribute to the penalty kill could be his most direct path to earning minutes under the Red Wings' coaching staff. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Stillman will likely be among the players closely watched during exhibition games to see how his game translates to the Red Wings' puck-pursuit style of play.
With this signing, the Red Wings continue to fine-tune their roster, focusing on players who bring specific tools—in Stillman's case, a combination of first-round skill and a high motor. The Sunday afternoon announcement confirms that Detroit is not finished looking for ways to improve their lineup as they aim for a return to the postseason.
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