Red Wings Extend Ben Chiarot's Contract: A Key Defensive Asset Secured for Three More Years
The Detroit Red Wings have secured defenceman Ben Chiarot for the next three years with a contract extension worth $11.55 million, equating to an annual cap hit of $3.85 million. Chiarot, aged 34, has been a key player for the Red Wings over the past four seasons, contributing four goals and 11 points in 54 games this season and maintaining an average ice time of 21:07 per game. Previously signed to a four-year, $19 million deal, Chiarot was set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the current season. Originally drafted by the Atlanta Thrashers in 2009, Chiarot has amassed 49 goals and 181 points in his 777-game career, playing for teams like the Winnipeg Jets, Montreal Canadiens, Florida Panthers, and now the Red Wings.
Chiarot's presence was instrumental in the Montreal Canadiens' journey to the Stanley Cup Final in 2021, where he contributed a goal and two points in 22 playoff games while averaging an impressive 25:15 of ice time. Currently, the Red Wings hold the second spot in the Atlantic Division with a strong record of 32-17-5, trailing just one point behind the Tampa Bay Lightning. This extension solidifies Chiarot's commitment to the Red Wings and further strengthens the team's defensive lineup, enhancing their prospects for continued success in the league.