The Detroit Red Wings have signed veteran defenseman Ben Chiarot to a three-year contract extension valued at $11.55 million. The announcement was made on Wednesday, reinforcing the team’s commitment to maintaining a strong defensive core as it continues its rebuild.
Chiarot, known for his physical style of play and steady presence on the blue line, joined the Red Wings as a free agent prior to the 2022-23 NHL season. Since then, he has been a regular fixture in Detroit’s defensive rotation, bringing experience and grit to the roster. While not typically known for high offensive output, Chiarot has contributed key minutes and leadership, particularly in defensive-zone situations and penalty-killing roles.
The new deal will keep Chiarot under contract with the Red Wings through the 2028-29 NHL season. The extension comes as Detroit looks to stabilize its blue line amidst ongoing development of younger prospects within the organization. Chiarot’s veteran presence is viewed by the front office as an asset both on and off the ice, particularly in mentoring younger defensemen transitioning to the NHL level.
Drafted in the fourth round of the 2009 NHL Draft by the Atlanta Thrashers, Chiarot has played for multiple NHL teams, including the Winnipeg Jets and Montreal Canadiens, before coming to Detroit. Over the course of his career, he has logged hundreds of NHL games, offering a mix of toughness, positional awareness, and experience.
Red Wings’ executive management described the extension as a move that aligns with their goals of building a competitive and balanced team. The club remains in the process of developing its roster while striving to return to playoff contention in the coming seasons.
Chiarot’s contract extension underscores Detroit’s approach of integrating veteran leadership with young talent as it continues to reshape its lineup and performance.
Financial terms of the deal average out to an annual cap hit of $3.85 million. The extension will take effect following the expiration of Chiarot’s previous contract.
