Why the Red Wings Won’t Pursue These Trades
There’s been a lot of speculation recently about the Detroit Red Wings potentially making big moves in the NHL trade market. On the surface, these rumors seem plausible.
NHL general managers often discuss trades, but actually finalizing these deals is rare.
High-profile players like Mitch Marner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Martin Necas of the Carolina Hurricanes, and Patrik Laine of the Columbus Blue Jackets are frequently mentioned in trade rumors. Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman would be remiss not to explore the cost of acquiring these players.
Yzerman is known for his thoroughness, so he’s undoubtedly looked into these options. However, the likely costs have probably deterred him from pursuing these trades.
Necas Too Costly for the Red Wings
Necas is frequently linked to Detroit, but the Hurricanes’ asking price is too high. They see Necas as a rising NHL star and want a comparable young talent in return, preferably a goal scorer.
Martin Necas gonna be TOP6 forward for many years. Underrated player. He has scored against the Red Wings tonight! Tie game. pic.twitter.com/4zErlFnbF2
— Rono (@RonoAnalyst) March 5, 2021
For Detroit, the player that fits this description is Lucas Raymond, who recently had a career-high 31-goal season. Despite Raymond being a restricted free agent due for a payday this summer, the Red Wings are not inclined to trade him.
Laine Seeks a Fresh Start
Laine has expressed a desire to leave the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 6-foot-5 winger, who once scored 44 goals for the Winnipeg Jets, has struggled recently, not surpassing 30 goals in six years and seeing his goal totals decline over the past three seasons.
"I think Treliving would rather extend than trade" @DarrenDreger joined us this morning on #FirstUp and dropped a bombshell on the future of Mitch Marner! 👀
Listen to Dreger's full interview HERE: https://t.co/v8njLGMaNf pic.twitter.com/C97X1Ofwwt
— First Up (@FirstUp1050) June 17, 2024
Currently in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, Laine’s situation is reminiscent of Jakub Vrana’s, whom Yzerman was reluctant to reintegrate after his stint in the program. Laine might come at the lowest cost of the three players, but his recent struggles make any trade for him questionable.
Marner’s Future with the Leafs
Leafs GM Brad Treliving is reportedly more focused on extending Marner’s contract than trading him. With Marner a year away from unrestricted free agency, trading him would be challenging, especially once the season starts.
Marner has a full no-movement clause, giving him control over his destination. Detroit is unlikely to be on his list.
In summary, the potential costs and complications involved in acquiring these players make it unlikely that the Red Wings will pursue these deals.
Leave a Reply