The Detroit Red Wings have secured a two-year contract extension with defenseman Jacob Bernard-Docker, valued at $3.2 million, which equates to an average annual value (AAV) of $1.6 million. This deal will extend through the 2027-28 NHL season, after which Bernard-Docker will become an unrestricted free agent.
Jacob Bernard-Docker’s Journey
At 25 years old, Bernard-Docker is currently in his inaugural season with the Red Wings. He signed a one-year contract worth $875,000 last summer. Previously, he was a first-round pick and began the last season with the Ottawa Senators. He later finished the campaign with the Buffalo Sabres, following a trade that involved Dylan Cozens and Joshua Norris.
Performance in Current Season
- Games Played: 55
- Assists: 4
- Plus/Minus Rating: +5
- Average Ice Time: 15 minutes per game
While Bernard-Docker has not been a major contributor offensively, his value lies on the defensive front. He is currently averaging a career-high on-ice save percentage (SV%) of 95.0% during even-strength play. This is notably the highest on the team, which has been competitive for playoff positioning this season.
Team Dynamics and Future Outlook
Despite his solid performance, Bernard-Docker has not been a regular on special teams, as the Red Wings typically utilize experienced players, especially on the penalty kill. He often partners with Albert Johansson, and their combined expected goals percentage (xGoals%) stands at 51.0%, as reported by MoneyPuck.
The future utilization of Bernard-Docker raises some questions. The Red Wings acquired Justin Faulk at the trade deadline, and with other young talents like Moritz Seider and Axel Sandin Pellikka, the right side of the defense might see limited space. With the recent end of the Travis Hamonic experiment, adjustments may be necessary for Bernard-Docker’s role moving forward.
Looking Ahead
Bernard-Docker’s contract solidifies Detroit’s defensive core for the next season, leaving only Hamonic and Simon Edvinsson without deals. Edvinsson is set to become a restricted free agent but currently lacks arbitration eligibility, providing the team with flexibility regarding his contract negotiations.
