Red Wings consider trades to boost youth on defense (Image via: Getty Images) The Detroit Red Wings are facing a defensive dilemma. With a surplus of blueliners and promising young talent emerging, the team is reportedly exploring trade options for veteran defensemen Travis Hamonic and Erik Gustafsson. According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, GM Steve Yzerman is seeking to clear roster space and maintain balance on the blue line.
Detroit’s growing defensive depth sparks trade talks around Travis Hamonic and Erik Gustafsson
The Red Wings’ blue line has become one of the most competitive in the NHL, and that’s creating tough decisions for Yzerman and head coach Derek Lalonde. Veterans like Hamonic and Gustafsson have been scratched in multiple games as Detroit leans on rising defensemen such as Axel Sandin-Pellikka, who is proving ready for regular NHL duty. The internal competition has made veteran depth pieces increasingly expendable.Hamonic, 33, was signed to a one-year, $1 million contract just before training camp, and moving him now could be a smart bit of business for Yzerman. Last season with Ottawa, the veteran played 59 games, notching one goal and six assists while averaging over 17 minutes of ice time. Despite his leadership qualities and more than 900 NHL appearances, Hamonic’s declining mobility and inconsistent defensive play have made him vulnerable in a younger, faster lineup. If traded, he could bring Detroit a draft pick or serve as a secondary piece in a bigger deal.
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Gustafsson’s case is also noteworthy. The 32-year-old inked a two-year, $2 million deal in July but has since been sent down to Grand Rapids due to the roster squeeze. In 60 NHL games last season, he recorded two goals and 16 assists but finished with a –19 rating. Still, his offensive instincts and experience make him a potential trade target for teams needing puck-moving depth.
Veteran moves could clear path for Detroit’s next generation of defenders
Clubs such as the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and San Jose Sharks, each looking for veteran leadership on the back end, could emerge as logical landing spots. For Yzerman, moving one or both veterans would create space for Detroit’s young defenders to grow while adding flexibility for future moves.
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As the Red Wings continue building around their emerging core, trade discussions surrounding Hamonic and Gustafsson are expected to heat up. Yzerman’s next move could further underscore Detroit’s full commitment to developing its next generation of blueliners.Also Read: New York Rangers’ scoreless streak at Madison Square Garden: Can J.T. Miller and Coach Mike Sullivan turn things around?