Boone Jenner, the 33‑year‑old centre who spent the last season with the Columbus Blue Jackets, has emerged as the most coveted unrestricted free‑agent forward on the market. In 2023‑24 he posted 13 goals and 38 points, numbers that reflect a strong two‑way game but also mask a career hampered by recurring injuries.
The buzz around Jenner has attracted a quartet of Original Six contenders: the Minnesota Wild, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the New York Rangers and the Edmonton Oilers. Each club sees a rare opportunity to plug a centre gap with a player who, despite his injury history, brings a reputation for work ethic and character.
Detroit, however, is not among the suitors. The Red Wings have publicly ruled out a pursuit of Jenner, focusing instead on internal options such as Andrew Copp and Markus Kasper while scouting the trade market for a playmaker who can unlock the potential of wingers Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat.
Jenner’s injury trajectory over the past six seasons has been a cautionary tale. He has never cracked the 49‑point barrier in a single campaign, and his production has plateaued despite flashes of high‑character play that have endeared him to teammates and coaches alike.
Analysts project that Jenner may command a four‑year term or a salary near $6 million per season, figures that reflect the scarcity of quality centres available to teams looking to bolster their forward lines.
The Trade Landscape
For the Red Wings, the decision hinges on whether a short‑term, high‑cost acquisition would outweigh the benefits of developing home‑grown talent or leveraging a trade that could bring a more balanced mix of skill and durability to the roster. Detroit’s front office is already exploring trade packages that could bring a centre with a more consistent offensive track record, a move that would complement the offensive firepower of Kane and DeBrincat while mitigating the injury risk associated with Jenner.