Finally, a trade proposal that makes sense.
Jonatan Berggren has surfaced in trade chatter once again, this time in a proposal sending him to the Utah Mammoth in exchange for veteran defenseman Ian Cole and a 2026 fourth-round draft pick.
For Detroit, the move would provide added stability on the blue line with Cole’s experience and defensive reliability. For Utah, it would represent a calculated bet on Berggren—a skilled but inconsistent young forward who has struggled to secure a long-term role with the Red Wings and may benefit from a change of scenery.
Detroit would acquire Cole, a two-time Stanley Cup champion who lifted the trophy in consecutive years with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 and 2017. The 36-year-old defenseman, originally selected 18th overall by the St. Louis Blues in the 2007 NHL Draft, is known for his ability to move the puck and support offensive transitions—an area that aligns with Detroit’s team identity.
Cole demonstrated both reliability and endurance last season, appearing in all 82 games and contributing 17 points (1 goal, 16 assists). His consistency suggests durability would not be a concern should he join the Red Wings’ defensive corps.
With general manager Steve Yzerman managing roughly $12 million in cap space and expressing interest in bolstering the defensive structure with veteran presence, Cole stands out as a practical, readily available option whose championship pedigree could complement a roster still striving to solidify its identity.
Moreover, the inclusion of a mid-round draft pick in the deal provides Detroit with additional flexibility. Come the trade deadline, such an asset could serve as valuable leverage in pursuing further reinforcements, potentially positioning the Red Wings for a more serious postseason push.
Jonatan Berggren likely to get dumped
Although Berggren signed a one-year, $1.8 million extension with Detroit in June, his long-term future with the club has remained uncertain. His name has circulated in trade rumors throughout the offseason, but this proposal marks the first that Detroit might reasonably consider.
Berggren, a restricted free agent at season’s end, would likely benefit from greater ice time in Utah, a young franchise still developing its core. Last season, he posted 12 goals and 12 assists for 24 points across 75 games with the Red Wings.
Some observers argue that Detroit mishandled Berggren’s development, though such claims increasingly resemble excuses. Consider Lucas Raymond, several years younger, who emerged as a top-line player and produced a career-high 80 points last season.
The contrast raises a difficult question: is Berggren a victim of circumstance, or simply not the player scouts once projected him to be? After 154 career NHL games across two stints in Detroit, the burden of proof now rests squarely on Berggren himself. At a certain point, personal accountability must replace speculation, and the evidence to date suggests he has yet to establish himself as a reliable contributor.
That assessment may sound harsh and inconsiderate, but it reflects the reality of a Red Wings team on the cusp of contention. If Berggren is to salvage his career, a move to a team like Utah—where he can secure consistent minutes and grow at a less pressured pace—could be his best opportunity. Should he falter there as well, however, it may serve as the final verdict on his NHL future.