The rebuild continues across the Detroit Red Wings’ system. Amadeus Lombardi may be the most NHL-ready prospect in the organization.His skillset matches an organizational need. Meanwhile, as the team rebuilds, outside restricted free agents (RFAs) increasingly become available via trade or offer sheets.
Acquiring more NHL talent is a must for general manager Steve Yzerman. With a smaller and less suitable unrestricted free agent (UFA) market, the trade route may be the best bet. Each day, it seems, a new and surprising name becomes available. Well, at least, if one believes the offseason rumor mill.
Few rumors pan out as fact. Many have dubious reliability in the first place. However, there are a few RFAs that may be realistic targets to acquire via trade. Here are two restricted free agents who could aid Detroit’s rebuild.
Nicolas Hague (defenseman, Golden Knights)
An opportunistic NHL general manager could pounce on the 26-year-old Vegas blue liner this off-season. His availability in trade is widely rumored. Standing 6-foot-6 and bringing shutdown-caliber defensive play, the left-shot defenseman could quietly be a good addition for a team like Detroit.
Las Vegas is a team looking for another Stanley Cup. Their ability to acquire high value players has been impressive. The team needs cap space to move forward. This could make Hague available for picks and prospects.
Not known for offensive output, Hague brings value on other levels. He’s averaged over 18 minutes on ice 3 of the past 4 years. Playing for a cup winning team brings a needed dimension to the locker room. His physicality and youth could be an upgrade on veteran defenders.
The downside would be the competition with Simon Edvinsson. His acquisition could fill a 2nd line role. That would open the way for Edvinsson to play top minutes with Moritz Seider. The issue would be neither Hague or Edvinsson being able to handle those minutes. Still, well worth Yzerman’s consideration.
Nicholas Robertson (left wing, Maple Leafs)
Robertson, 23, made his way into Toronto’s lineup over the past two seasons. This year, Robertson dressed in 69 games. Averaging about 12 minutes of ice time, he chipped in 22 points (15 goals, seven assists. He’s rumored to be seeking a trade somewhere he can play a bigger role. He only appeared in three playoff games for Craig Berube’s team but chipped in a goal and an assist.
Robertson has holes in his game. However, he also has an undeniable ability to contribute offensively. Detroit needs more scoring punch on the roster. A possible third line deployment could work nicely in Detroit. His presence could push veterans to step up or move out.
Toronto is making big changes behind the scenes. Brendan Shanahan is moving on. Mitch Marner may also be moving out via unrestricted free agency. There is a strong appetite to add grit for a stronger post season showing. Robertson may be on the move.
Useful young talent
As the draft approaches, the list of RFAs in play continues to grow. Surprising defensive and offensive options are entering the rumor mill. For Detroit, this could be a huge opportunity.
Adding more 22 to 26 year old players to the mix has to be attractive. Veteran acquisitions have not panned out for the most part. If a young player that can be a solid contributor can be acquired, Yzerman should be on the phone. This could help stabilize the “Yzerplan”.
I like both guys. I don’t have a problem bringing in another young LD….and Hague really plays above his age. I think he could pair well with Mo while Eddy & ASP hold 2D. To me, that’s stable and gives Mo a chance to utilize his offensive talent without having to worry too much about covering for Chiarot – who could move to 3LD.
Robertson looked steady in the SCPO. We have got to get viable talent. Robertson’s not going to be pile his brother – but I think 3d or 4th (being least-favoured option…) line duties could let his game grow. He could easily play up the line-up when called upon.
I’m right there with you. They have to give Mo some real support. The number of D zone starts he gets is high, and needs some reinforcement. Hague is a surprising name to hear. Vegas swings for the fences and the cost is starting to hit. But, they have a cup in the pantry for doing business this way. Hague would be a good get. My ideal is still Miller, but gladly take Hague. For Robertson, I agree. Getting him on the 3rd line could really up the scoring. The price is right. He paid the price to get to the net against Florida. At 5’9” he showed more guts than too many of the veterans in Detroit. I think there will be a decent amount of heat on him due to cost and possible ROI. A lot of teams snug against the cap. Awesome to see you my friend!
@Jeremy:
I sent the above via my iPhone, this one is being sent via laptop – trying to see if there’s some sort of disconnect between system of use and ability to send comments (e.g., does HHS only allow Apple products to post comments, etc…).
So glad you broke through!