In a surprising twist that’s shaking up the NHL rumor mill, Detroit Red Wings center Michael Rasmussen has reportedly been offered a $18.6 million long-term deal by the Montreal Canadiens, according to league insiders. The unexpected move has left fans and analysts stunned, as Rasmussen has been a key figure in Detroit’s rebuild and wasn’t widely considered a trade or free-agent target.A Bold Move by Montreal
The Canadiens, who are aggressively restructuring their roster in pursuit of a playoff push, are said to be offering the 6-foot-6 forward a multi-year contract that could run 4 years at $4.65 million per season, contingent upon Rasmussen’s agreement before the end of the 2024-25 season. The offer reportedly includes performance bonuses and a modified no-trade clause — a clear sign Montreal sees him as a cornerstone in their evolving strategy.
“Rasmussen fits the mold of what Montreal’s been missing — size, strength down the middle, and defensive responsibility,” one league source told TSN. “They’re not just buying into his current performance; they’re investing in what he’s becoming.”
Rasmussen’s Rise in Detroit
Drafted 9th overall in 2017, Rasmussen has developed steadily in Detroit, emerging as a reliable two-way presence. While not flashy, his physicality, penalty killing, and faceoff consistency have earned praise from Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde.
In the current season, Rasmussen has tallied 15 goals and 22 assists through 68 games — a career-best pace. His chemistry with Detroit’s young core, including Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider, has made him a quiet but vital piece of the team’s progression toward playoff contention.
Will Detroit Match the Offer?
Rasmussen is currently in the final year of his three-year extension signed in 2022, worth $4.4 million total. While he’s set to become a restricted free agent (RFA), this aggressive move by Montreal could force Detroit’s hand.
Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman has not publicly commented on the report, but sources say the front office is “weighing their options,” with an eye on maintaining roster flexibility and cap space.