Detroit City Wire

DETROIT -- Jeff Petry, a defenseman for the Detroit Red Wings, faced an injury-shortened 2024-25 season due to an abdominal injury sustained on January 3. After discussions with the team's medical staff, it was decided that surgery would be the best option for his recovery. This decision sidelined him until late March.

“Obviously, nobody wants to get hurt,” Petry expressed during his end-of-season media session on April 19. He noted the challenges of staying updated with new coaching strategies while being unable to participate on the ice.

Despite playing only 44 games in his second season with Detroit and recording eight points, Petry achieved significant personal milestones. These included his 950th career game on November 16 and his 100th game with Detroit on December 7.

“It was a tough second half of the year for me,” Petry stated. He acknowledged the team's positive response to a mid-season coaching change and emphasized their adaptability to new systems under head coach Todd McLellan and assistant coach Trent Yawney, appointed on December 26.

Petry highlighted improvements in Detroit's defensive play as a key area of growth. “I think Todd really hammered the fact that...you’re going to have to win games 2-1, 3-2,” he said. He praised the forwards' efforts in backchecking and pressuring opponents, which contributed to stronger defensive performances.

As an unrestricted free agent this summer, Petry remains optimistic about continuing his hockey career. “It’s definitely my goal to play next year,” he affirmed, emphasizing his determination to return from injury and prove his capabilities.