As the 2025 NHL offseason progresses, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves in an interesting position with over $12 million in cap space and a clear need to improve their roster. After missing out on some of the top free agents, General Manager Steve Yzerman may turn his attention to the trade market to acquire high-impact players. Could one of those players be a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) carrying a hefty price tag?
Several players who could command $50 million or more in future contracts might be on Detroit's radar. The Red Wings' priorities appear to be adding a top-six forward, a top-four defenseman, and more depth scoring. With those needs in mind, here are some potential targets:
Forwards
- Mitch Marner (Toronto Maple Leafs): Marner would be a game-changing addition, immediately elevating the Red Wings' offense. However, he was recently traded and signed with the Vegas Golden Knights.
- Nikolaj Ehlers (Winnipeg Jets): Ehlers is a consistent scorer who could solidify a top-six role. He has a proven track record and brings a blend of experience and youth.
- Brock Boeser (Vancouver Canucks): Boeser is a dependable scorer with a history of finding the net. However, he may prefer to play for his home-state Minnesota Wild.
- David Pastrnak (Boston Bruins): Pastrnak would address Detroit's need for goal scoring, but acquiring him would require parting with high draft picks and top prospects. He also has a no-move clause, meaning he would have to approve any trade to Detroit.
- Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars): Robertson would add significant depth to Detroit's top six. However, the Stars have already invested heavily in other players, potentially making it difficult to offer Robertson a new contract.
- Rickard Rakell (Pittsburgh Penguins): Rakell is a talented Swedish winger with a strong offensive track record. The Penguins are reportedly willing to move him for prospects and draft picks.
Defensemen
- Aaron Ekblad (Florida Panthers): Ekblad would bring a winning mindset and productivity to the Red Wings.
- Vladislav Gavrikov (Los Angeles Kings): The big Russian left-shot defenseman would be a nice fit alongside Moritz Seider. However, he is reportedly seeking a significant contract and may prefer to play for the New York Rangers.
- Noah Dobson (New York Islanders): Dobson could provide offensive capabilities and would pair well with Moritz Seider.
- Bowen Byram (Buffalo Sabres): Byram is a young, productive defenseman who could be a realistic trade target for Detroit. The Sabres have a surplus of left-handed defensemen, making Byram potentially expendable.
Ultimately, whether the Red Wings pursue a pending UFA with a potential $50 million price tag will depend on several factors, including the player's availability, Detroit's cap situation, and Yzerman's overall vision for the team. While the free agent market has thinned out, the trade market could offer some intriguing options for the Red Wings to bolster their roster and push for a playoff spot.
