We have some more editions of NHL rumours. The NHL will be on a break with the Four Nations Faceoff coming in the next few days. However, general managers will be busy making moves or at least setting the framework for them. There are a number of teams that are on the borderline of contention. This means some tough decisions may be on the horizon for some team executives. One team that’s on the edge of contention that may make a move is the Detroit Red Wings. This edition of NHL rumours talks about how one forward could be moved.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Detroit Red Wings May Trade Forward
Rumour: In the latest edition of Saturday’s Headlines on Hockey Night in Canada, Elliotte Friedman said that Vladimir Tarasenko might be the subject of trade talks.
Analysis: Tarasenko was signed by the Red Wings in the off-season to a two-year deal. However, it doesn’t seem like the move has been a good fit. The veteran Russian inked a deal with $4.75 million cap hit in the off-season. This contract comes with a full no-movement clause. That no-trade clause drops to an eight-team list in the 2025-26 season.
Friedman said this one was a bit of a surprise, but he’s heard some noise surrounding Tarasenko. Detroit has gotten better this season and are holding the last of the two Wild Card spots in the Eastern Conference heading into Sunday’s games.
One would think the Red Wings would love to hang onto a talented veteran. However, he’s only scored seven goals this season. Detroit has a younger team, but this veteran hasn’t been able to find his way.
Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman has been tinkering with the lineup. However, he might be able to spin Tarasenko for an asset at the upcoming deadline.
What it Means
Tarasenko is a two-time Stanley Cup winner and hit his milestone 300th goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning. However, he’s bounced around the league the last few seasons.
The Russian winger has been traded at the deadline a couple of times in and around the trade deadline. One would think he would be safe being on a contending team and with a two-year deal. However, it may be a familiar case of him getting dealt at the deadline again.
Friedman mentioned that anything is likely in the early stages. However, that doesn’t mean a deal won’t happen. The Sportsnet insider said he will see how this develops, but there could be some things in the offing.
Detroit is under pressure to finally make the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the 2016-17 season. The Wings just missed out last season and don’t want to deal with the pain of missing out again.
Trading Tarasenko may not be ideal, but Yzerman may be able to spin this into getting some assets that may help now or in the future. However, we’ll monitor this situation as it draws closer to the deadline.
Main photo by: Brett Holmes-Imagn Images
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