Red Wings: Analyzing 3 Possible Trade Partners in the West Division

Minnesota Wild

Cap Space: $2.19 million

Red Wing in Play: Luke Glendening

The Wild are in an odd spot at the deadline this year. Still seen as a rebuilding year, they are ahead of schedule – 3rd place in the West Division, just 8 points out of the number one spot. So they have decision to make – continue down the rebuild path and focus on acquiring future assets, or start to sell the future to build on the current success?

Based on the lack of rumors, it seems as though the Wild will opt to stay conservative. Not shipping off players for assets, but also not buying rentals for a playoff run. However, based on their current divisional standing, the Wild are destined for a playoff spot. Glendening could be the difference maker in a seven game playoff series.

The Wild have the second worst faceoff percentage in the league, and Glendening has the second best. He’s also a solid 4th line grinder, and he brings a solid veteran presence to the bottom six.

Best Case:

’21  3rd rounder

The Wild decide to strengthen the roster for a legit playoff run by acquiring a veteran with some very specialized skills.

Realistic:

’21 4th rounder