Red Wings Apparently Out For Top Trade Deadline Target

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Julien Trekker
March 6, 2024 (2:31 PM)

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With just over 20 games left to play, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves holding the first Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference.

Given their strong position and the potential to make the playoffs for the first time since 2016, it's possible we might see Steve Yzerman, the team's general manager, getting very active in the trade market as the deadline approaches.

Could the Red Wings Be Eyeing Jake Guentzel from the Pittsburgh Penguins?

It's a well-known fact that the Penguins might be looking to trade Guentzel at the deadline. He will be a free agent after the season and if Dubas doesn't want to lose him for nothing on July 1st, he could move him before the deadline.

While many teams could be interested, such as the Canucks, Oilers or Hurricanes, the Red Wings are reportedly out of the derby.

Guentzel is expected to demand a higher salary next season. If Dubas wishes to maximize his trade value, he might try to ensure Guentzel isn't just a short-term loan but comes with a contract extension.

Elliotte Friedman pointed out that giving out big contract extensions isn't really Yzerman's way of doing things:

"It fits [in Detroit], but it's not like Yzerman to give players like that seven-year extensions."

With the need to negotiate new deals for both Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider this summer, Yzerman is unlikely to go after a high-profile player like Guentzel, especially if it risks losing one of his key players.

This doesn't mean the Red Wings won't be looking to make moves before the trade deadline. They are expected to be active, but will likely target players who come with a lower price tag than Guentzel.

Do you think the Red Wings should go after Guentzel?

As seen on Daily Hockey Dose - Detroit Red Wings Reportedly Out of the Derby For Top Deadline Acquisition