The NHL free agency frenzy is underway as teams look to bolster their rosters for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Among the notable moves, former Michigan State Spartans Jeff Petry and Mackenzie MacEachern have secured contracts with the Florida Panthers and Vancouver Canucks, respectively. Meanwhile, Mason Appleton remains a valuable player in search of a new home, with potential interest from the Detroit Red Wings.

Appleton, primarily known as a bottom-six forward and a solid penalty killer, has spent most of his career with the Winnipeg Jets and briefly with the Seattle Kraken. Analysts suggest that the Red Wings are in dire need of a penalty-killing forward for their fourth line, making Appleton an appealing target. His experience and skill set could fill a crucial role for Detroit as they look to enhance their team dynamics.