The Detroit Red Wings have several trade targets, however another goalie is not one of them. The arrival of John Gibson has been a saving grace for the team this season. Therefore, fans were concerned when Gibson didn’t return to action against the Nashville Predators after intermission. Luckily, Cam Talbot had his best showing in a while and helped the team find a win.
Detroit is in a tough race to make the playoffs, and every game feels like a season breaker right now. Talbot stepped in for the injured Gibson and stopped 18 of 19 shots to help Detroit grab 2 huge points. This turn of events may end up being a blessing in disguise for Detroit in their final 21 games.
The game was a big win for the team, and afterward Todd McLellan remarked that the injury to Gibson may not be serious. If so, the jump start to Talbot could mean an incredibly strong goalie tandem down the stretch at Detroit seeks to make the playoffs. Still, the upcoming schedule is unforgiving, and each game is going to be a battle.
The Trade Deadline may disappoint fans
Detroit has been linked to multiple trade targets, however the team just isn’t closing any deals. Big targets like Elias Pettersson and Justin Faulk are drawing a lot of interest, and the prices are sky high. General Manger Steve Yzerman seems to do his best to avoid an overpay on any deal. Thus, the big deals may elude the club once again this season.
The emergence of Simon Edvinsson this year has given the Red Wings something they have not had in a long time. Edvinsson, along with Moritz Seider, are one of the top blue line pairings in the entire NHL this year. However, the team could use another top 4 defenseman to stabilize the lineup. Unfortunately, every team in the league seems to be looking for that same opportunity.
It was revealed that the Vancouver Canucks were asking for Edvinsson as a return for defenseman Quinn Hughes. Unfortunately, that was a non starter for the Red Wings at this point. Last season Marco Kasper and Axel Sandin-Pellikka were both asked about by other teams. Similarly, both players were kept out of the bargaining room. Unless Yzerman can find the right deal at the right price, Detroit may once again stand pat at the deadline this year.
When should Detroit go “all in”?
The Red Wings have built an impressive pipeline, but seem reluctant to deal any of their young talent. Nate Danielson was rumored to have been asked about. 2025 first round pick Carter Bear has had an impressive season, and could likely help in a major deal. Trey Augustine is another name that would likely move the needle in terms of a high end prospect.
Detroit, at some point, will have to balance sacrificing potential to bring in an NHL player. Until then, the team will likely be looking at draft picks and depth players for smaller upgrades. Each passing day seems to indicate another quiet trade deadline for the Red Wings this year. If the team is going to make the playoffs, this is likely to be the group that gets them there.
