Questions about Alex DeBrincat’s future with the Detroit Red Wings have continued to surface after trade speculation gained traction in recent weeks. As fans wondered whether the star forward could eventually be on the move, a new NHL insider report has provided fresh clarity on the situation. The latest update offers important insight into where things stand and what it could mean for Detroit’s long-term plans.
NHL Insider Provides Major Alex DeBrincat Trade Update
Mar 28, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings right wing Alex DeBrincat (93) skates with the puck in the second period against the Philadelphia Flyers at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn ImagesCredit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
DeBrincat’s future has been in question over the last two months. With Dylan Larkin requesting a trade, there were rumors that Detroit’s star forward could request a trade or leave in NHL free agency next offseason. However, an NHL insider has revealed a major update for DeBrincat and the Red Wings.
It is unlikely that DeBrincat will leave the Red Wings as long as the front office ponies up the cash to give him market value, as reported by Detroit Hockey Now’s Bob Duff. The 28-year-old forward is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent at the conclusion of the 2026-27 NHL season.
During the 2025-26 NHL season, DeBrincat tied his career high with 41 goals and set a new mark with 85 points. It was one of the best seasons from a Red Wing in recent memory. In fact, DeBrincat became the first Detroit player since Marian Hossa (2009) to score 40 goals in a season.
This is just one of several reasons why the Red Wings want to keep DeBrincat far into the future.
Why the Red Wings Want to Keep DeBrincat
Before Steve Yzerman‘s departure as general manager, DeBrincat represented the best move of his Red Wings tenure. The 28-year-old forward was acquired from the Ottawa Senators during the 2023 NHL offseason for Dominik Kubalik, Donovan Sebrango, a conditional 2024 first-round pick, and a 2024 fourth-round pick.
Now, DeBrincat is one of Detroit’s best players. The organization really struggled in five-on-five play during the 2025-26 NHL season. This led the Red Wings to sign Viktor Arvidsson, who was one of the best five-on-five offensive players in NHL free agency. Arvidsson will join DeBrincat and Lucas Raymond as some of Detroit’s best offensive players.
DeBrincat is a 40-goal scorer, and Detroit can’t let him walk. The Red Wings forward figures to be the team’s most important offensive player during the 2026-27 NHL season and beyond. It becomes even more important with Larkin likely leaving soon. DeBrincat will become the team’s offensive leader moving forward.
As long as the organization values DeBrincat properly, there shouldn’t be any concern about him leaving or requesting a trade any time soon.
What’s Next for the Detroit Red Wings and Alex DeBrincat
Feb 28, 2026; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Detroit Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan looks on against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn ImagesCredit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Detroit wants to keep DeBrincat, and the feeling appears to be mutual. DeBrincat is one of the best offensive players for the Red Wings in the last decade, giving the team a proven leader. With the 28-year-old forward becoming a free agent after the 2026-27 NHL season, a new general manager will be tasked with giving him a long-term extension.
The Red Wings can’t allow DeBrincat to walk out of the organization. DeBrincat is an elite player, and Detroit should do whatever it takes to keep him long-term.
Will the Detroit Red Wings give Alex DeBrincat a new contract extension?
Read More: NHL Insider Reveals Alarming Dylan Larkin Trade Update for Detroit Red Wings
Austin Konenski is a writer at Sportsnaut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA, and more. His work can also … More about Austin Konenski