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Five Red Wings changes that need to happen before the trade deadline

By Chris Giles

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 13: Tampa Bay Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman speaks during a ceremony to retire the number of former Tampa Bay Lightning Martin St. Louis at the Amalie Arena on January 13, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 13: Tampa Bay Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman speaks during a ceremony to retire the number of former Tampa Bay Lightning Martin St. Louis at the Amalie Arena on January 13, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images) /
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Vladislav Namestnikov continues to improve his trade value before the deadline.  Currently playing on the top line, Namestnikov would like nothing more than to sign an extension and continue playing for the Red Wings.  Namestnikov is currently tied with Robby Fabbri for 5th in Red Wings scoring.  In 46 games, the veteran forward has 12 goals, 10 assists, 22 points, and a -1 rating.  Namestnikov is versatile and has a relatively inexpensive cap hit of $2M.

Advantages:  Namestnikov is playing really good hockey right now and his value is the highest it has been since signing with Detroit in October 2020.  He is a UFA and Detroit can pick up a draft choice or a prospect to assist in the rebuild.  Namestnikov could be re-signed as a free agent next summer.  Namestnikov will be replaced on the top line once Jakub Vrana returns from shoulder surgery.  This will lessen the blow of a Namestnikov trade.

Disadvantages: The Red Wings will lose a valuable member of the team.  Namestnikov loves Detroit and Red Wings fans enjoy the skill and energy he brings to the team on a nightly basis.

What to expect:  Namestnikov will be traded for a 3rd round pick in the 2022 draft.  Namestnikov will be re-signed to a two-year deal once the free agency period begins in July.

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