Detroit Red Wings: 4 forwards to target ahead of the trade deadline

The Detroit Red Wings should consider adding Nick Bonino.

While the Detroit Red Wings missed out on Timo Meier after he was dealt to the New Jersey Devils, they could still reach out to the Sharks and see if they can acquire one of their other forward.

Nick Bonino is a 34-year-old forward who can play center but also slot in as a winger, with 14 years in the NHL under his belt. He’s no stranger to this league and has been around. While he will not jump into the Red Wings’ forward core and put up major points, he’s got experience.

This team will be leaning on veteran players, especially those like David Perron, who has been in postseason runs to get them through this home stretch; Bonino would add another veteran presence into the locker room.

Bonino’s been to the playoffs ten times, with two Stanley Cup championships during his time with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Red Wings are not gearing up for a cup run, but his experience could help these younger players learn what it takes to get themselves to that level.

In 2022-23, Bonino has played in 57 games with ten goals and nine assists for 19 total points for the Sharks. He’s an unrestricted free agent after the 2022-23 season, so there’s no commitment to Bonino sticking around.

The Red Wings might benefit from a veteran forward like Bonino. It’s worth giving the Sharks a call and seeing what it might take to acquire him.