15 Players Who Could Make Sense for the Detroit Red Wings at the Trade Deadline
The NHL trade deadline is approaching, and for the Detroit Red Wings, this year's deadline is shaping up to be a pivotal moment. With a history of missing the playoffs and being sellers, the Red Wings are poised to take a different approach this time around.
General Manager Steve Yzerman is expected to be active, given the team's current standing. The Red Wings (35-20-6, 76 points) are in third place in the Atlantic Division, above the wild-card line, and are well-positioned to make a playoff push. With the NHL's increasing parity and the Eastern Conference lacking a clear favorite, strategic moves could propel the Red Wings further.
The team has been linked to several players who could significantly impact their performance. Here's a list of 15 players who could be valuable additions:
- Vincent Trocheck (N.Y. Rangers, Center, 32, $5.625M cap hit through 2028-29): The Rangers are reportedly open to trading Trocheck, and he fits the Red Wings' criteria as a two-way center. His age and contract align with the team's plans.
- Nazem Kadri (Calgary, Center, 35, $7M cap hit through 2028-29): The Red Wings have shown interest in Kadri, who brings a snarl and offensive skill. However, his age and contract might be a concern.
- Robert Thomas (St. Louis, Center, 26, $8.125M AAV through 2030-31): Despite recent injuries, Thomas has a notable 86-point season under his belt. The Blues' decision to trade him remains a mystery, and the Red Wings might need to offer a substantial package.
- Tyler Myers (Vancouver, Right-shot defenseman, 36, $3M AAV through 2026-27): The Red Wings have a deal on the table, but Myers' no-move clause and family concerns could keep him in Vancouver.
- Justin Faulk (St. Louis, Right-shot defenseman, 33, $6.5M AAV through 2026-27): Faulk's offensive production has slowed, but he's a skilled puck-moving defenseman who could enhance the Red Wings' defense.
- Logan Stanley (Winnipeg, Left-shot defenseman, 27, $1.25M AAV, UFA): Stanley's physical play, shot-blocking ability, and status as a pure rental make him an intriguing option for Yzerman.
- Elias Pettersson (Vancouver, Center, 27, $11.6M AAV through 2031-32): Pettersson's declining offensive performance and moody personality make him a less appealing prospect, despite his scoring ability.
- Mackenzie Weegar (Calgary, Right-shot defenseman, 32, $6.25M AAV through 2030-31): Weegar is a skilled defenseman, but his high contract and desire to stay in Calgary might hinder a trade.
- Dougie Hamilton (New Jersey, Right-shot defenseman, 32, $9M AAV through 2027-28): Hamilton has been linked to the Red Wings before, but his contract and the uncertainty surrounding the Devils' plans make him a risky addition.
- Mario Ferraro (San Jose, Left-shot defenseman, 27, $3.25M AAV, UFA): The Red Wings have shown interest in Ferraro, a versatile and defensive-minded veteran who can play both sides of the ice.
- Rasmus Ristolainen (Philadelphia, Right-shot defenseman, 31, $5.1M AAV through 2027-28): Ristolainen's availability is uncertain, but his size, grit, and recent good performance make him a potential target for the Red Wings.
- Zach Whitecloud (Calgary, Right-shot defenseman, 29, $2.75M AAV through 2027-28): The Flames might wait to trade Whitecloud until next season, making him an attractive option for the Red Wings.
- Jamie Oleksiak (Seattle, Left-shot defenseman, 33, $4.6M AAV, UFA): Seattle's playoff race might keep Oleksiak, but he could be a valuable depth piece for the Red Wings.
- Simon Benoit (Toronto, Left-shot defenseman, 27, $1.35M AAV through 2027-28): If the Maple Leafs are sellers, Benoit could be a low-risk addition for the Red Wings.
- Brandon Carlo (Toronto, Right-shot defenseman, 29, $3.485M AAV through 2026-27): Carlo's stock has dropped due to injuries, but he's a solid defensive player who can contribute to the Red Wings' success.
The Red Wings' upcoming games against the Golden Knights will be a crucial test, with the faceoff set for Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Fans can tune in via FDSN/97.1 FM, and the Red Wings look to build on their recent performance.
