Red Wings Sign Viktor Arvidsson to 2-Year Deal

The Detroit Red Wings have signed winger Viktor Arvidsson to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $5 million.

How Arvidsson Did in 2025-26

The 2025-26 season was a return to status for Arvidsson. He had been a solid scorer with the Los Angeles Kings before injuries ruined his final season there. After a 15-goal, 27-point season with the Edmonton Oilers, leading to the team seeking to move him, many wondered if the 32-year-old Swede had anything left in the tank.

Arvidsson rebounded to form with the Boston Bruins on a one-year “prove it” deal. He scored 25 goals and added 29 assists while tying a career-high with a plus-20 rating. He was an important player for a Bruins team that generally overachieved and made the playoffs when it was widely anticipated that they would miss. The Bruins were interested in re-signing him, but he turned down an extension to test free agency.

What Arvidsson Brings to the Table

Diminutive at 5-foot-10 and 180 pounds, Arvidsson has a lethal shot and one of the more deceptive releases in the NHL. He uses his speed well to stretch the ice and has strong possession numbers, making him someone to be accounted for around the front of the net.

He is solidly responsible defensively, though he isn’t exactly an elite defensive forward. Despite his size, he plays a gritty, physical game. He does have the offensive skills that make him a great middle-six fit that can appear on the power play as well.

How Arvidsson Fits With the Red Wings

Arvidsson is an excellent middle-six winger when he’s healthy. It’s expected that that’s where he will play in the Wings’ lineup. It appears his season with the Oilers was an anomaly, and he’s capable of scoring around 25 goals and hitting around 50 points when he’s at his best.

Though he will likely never become the 30-goal player he was early in his career, he can be a dangerous second-line winger that can contribute defensively. He is 32 years old, so there is the question of how much longer he can perform at this level, but he’s an excellent addition to the middle of the lineup.