Detroit Red Wings Lock Down Veteran Defenseman Ben Chiarot with Multi-Year Extension
The Detroit Red Wings have made a strategic move to bolster their defensive corps by securing veteran blueliner Ben Chiarot with a three-year contract extension. The deal, announced on Wednesday, is valued at $11.55 million, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $3.85 million. This extension prevents Chiarot from entering unrestricted free agency this summer, ensuring his presence in the Red Wings' lineup through the 2028-29 season.
Contract Details and Financial Implications
Chiarot's new contract represents a slight decrease from his previous AAV of $4.75 million, reflecting both market conditions and the team's salary cap management. With this signing, the Red Wings now have approximately $66 million committed to players for the upcoming season, positioning them well under the projected NHL salary cap of $104 million. The three-year term provides stability for both the player and the organization as they continue their competitive push.
Chiarot's Performance and Career Trajectory
Currently in his fourth season with Detroit, Chiarot has been a consistent presence on the ice. During the 2025-26 campaign, he has skated in all 54 games, contributing 11 points (4 goals, 7 assists) with a plus-one rating, 48 penalty minutes, 64 shots, 109 hits, and 113 blocks while averaging 21:07 of ice time per game. His previous season (2024-25) saw him tally 13 points (4 goals, 9 assists) and 69 penalty minutes across 81 games.
Originally drafted by the Atlanta Thrashers in the fourth round (120th overall) of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Chiarot has built an impressive career spanning multiple franchises. His regular-season statistics include 181 points (49 goals, 132 assists) and 575 penalty minutes in 777 games with the Winnipeg Jets, Montréal Canadiens, Florida Panthers, and Detroit Red Wings since the 2013-14 season.
Playoff Experience and Team Impact
Beyond regular-season contributions, Chiarot brings valuable postseason experience to the Red Wings. He has recorded 8 points (1 goal, 7 assists) and 53 penalty minutes in 66 playoff contests, most notably helping the Montréal Canadiens reach the 2021 Stanley Cup Final. His physical style and defensive reliability make him a crucial asset as Detroit, currently holding a 32-17-5 record and second place in the Atlantic Division, prepares for upcoming challenges including home games against teams like the Washington Capitals.
Early Career Development
Chiarot's professional journey began in the minor leagues, where he demonstrated his potential. With the American Hockey League's Chicago Wolves and St. John's IceCaps, he accumulated 43 points (12 goals, 31 assists), a plus-17 rating, and 221 penalty minutes in 169 games, helping the IceCaps secure a berth in the 2014 Calder Cup Finals. Earlier in his development, during the 2011-12 season with the ECHL's Colorado Eagles, he posted 13 points (6 goals, 7 assists) and 13 penalty minutes in 24 games.
This contract extension underscores the Red Wings' commitment to maintaining a competitive roster by retaining key veterans like Chiarot, whose experience and defensive prowess are expected to play a pivotal role in the team's pursuit of success in the coming seasons.
