Detroit Red Wings Ink Eduards Tralmaks to a Two-Way Contract
Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman has made another strategic roster move, securing the services of 28-year-old forward Eduards Tralmaks on a two-way contract set to begin next season. The Latvian-born player will be making his second attempt at establishing himself in North American professional hockey, having previously spent time in the AHL with the Providence Bruins.
A Second Shot at North American Hockey
Tralmaks is no stranger to the North American game. Before making a name for himself in European leagues, he played college hockey at the University of Maine, where he showcased his potential as a skilled forward. Following his collegiate career, he spent two seasons with the AHL affiliate of the Boston Bruins, the Providence Bruins, from 2021-22 to 2022-23.
While with Providence, Tralmaks put up 41 points (22 goals, 19 assists) in 87 games, showing promise but ultimately failing to secure an NHL contract at the time. After not receiving an offer from the Bruins or any other NHL team, he took his talents overseas, where his career took a significant upward turn.
Dominance in the Czech Extraliga
Following his stint in the AHL, Tralmaks signed with Rytíři Kladno, a team owned by hockey legend Jaromír Jágr, in the Czech Extraliga. The move proved to be a turning point in his career, as he quickly established himself as one of the top players in the league.
In the 2023-24 season, Tralmaks dominated the Extraliga, leading the league in power-play goals. This success carried over to the current 2024-25 season, where he emerged as the league’s top scorer with an impressive 51 points (23 goals, 28 assists) in 48 games. Additionally, his faceoff skills were on full display, as he led the Extraliga with a 62.5% win rate, proving himself to be a well-rounded player capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game.
His previous season’s totals of 34 points (21 goals, 11 assists) in 52 games already indicated his potential, but his breakout performance this year solidified his reputation as an offensive force.
What Tralmaks Brings to the Red Wings
At 6’4″ and 209 pounds, Tralmaks brings size, versatility, and offensive skill to Detroit’s system. He has experience playing both wing and center, giving the Red Wings some flexibility in where he could potentially fit into their lineup.
His ability to produce offensively, particularly on the power play, could be a valuable asset for a team that has struggled at times to find secondary scoring. Additionally, his proficiency in the faceoff circle could make him an intriguing depth option at center, especially if he can carry over his dominant 62.5% faceoff win rate from the Czech League.
Can He Secure an NHL Roster Spot?
While Tralmaks has signed an NHL contract for the first time in his career, it remains to be seen if he will break into the Red Wings’ roster next season. The two-way nature of the contract means he will likely start with Detroit’s AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, where he can further adjust to the North American game.
However, given his recent offensive success and well-rounded skill set, he could quickly push for a call-up if he impresses in the AHL. Detroit’s forward group has seen frequent movement due to injuries and roster changes, so opportunities could arise throughout the season.
A Smart Low-Risk Move for the Red Wings
For the Red Wings, signing Tralmaks is a low-risk, high-reward move. If he transitions well back into North American hockey, he could become a solid depth forward or even a potential contributor in the bottom six. His power-play abilities and faceoff skills could also make him a valuable specialist if he adapts to the NHL level.
With general manager Steve Yzerman continuing to build Detroit’s roster with smart, strategic signings, Tralmaks represents yet another intriguing addition to the organization. Whether he makes an impact at the NHL level or serves as a key AHL contributor, this move provides the Red Wings with another asset as they continue their push toward long-term success.
Final Thoughts
Eduards Tralmaks’ journey has been anything but conventional. After missing out on an NHL contract in his first North American stint, he reinvented himself overseas, proving that he could be an elite offensive player. Now, with his return to North America, he has another opportunity to prove himself at the highest level.
As Detroit continues to develop its roster, Tralmaks could be a name to watch next season. Whether he sticks with the Red Wings or starts in Grand Rapids, his size, skill, and versatility make him a player worth keeping an eye on.
