Trade Targets the Detroit Red Wings Could Explore this Off-Season

Leon Draisaitl to the Red Wings?

Moritz Seider is the cornerstone of the Detroit Red Wings franchise. Seider is a young German defender with elite level qualities of size, senses, and skating. Moving the puck up the ice to a fellow countryman would be comforting.

Leon Draisaitl is a star power forward with unbelievable playmaking abilities. This opportunity could accelerate the rebuild to being near complete. While I must admit this trade is very unlikely, it does make sense. The relationship between Steve Yzerman and the Edmonton Oilers Ken Holland, the Oilers need for depth, and the salary cap for both teams are reasons to give hope and grease this deal needs.

Why the Oilers Should Consider

While giving up a super star in the league, they have proven that they do not have the depth to be serious contenders. McDavid, Draisaitl, Nugent-Hopkins, and Nurse assume almost $35 million of the Oilers cap, preventing them from being able to sign quality depth options. With this trade they pick up three top-nine options, a capable puck-moving defenseman, and assets in the draft.

Why the Wings should Consider

They need a star forward and an elite level center. The trade gives the Wings flexibility to move Larkin to the wing or provide the captain better matchups. His experience of being “the man” over the past few seasons will allow him to be even more effective in his 200-foot game. Hronek is replaceable with prospects in the system, the draft, or free agency.

While Vrana is trade piece that the fans will miss, his ability and skillset will be enticing to the Oilers; you must give up something good to get something good. Veleno has a top six potential. It may be difficult to give up a prospect like Joey V but with the Wings having a high-end prospect pool; he is expendable