When Steve Yzerman was introduced as the next general manager of the Detroit Red Wings, he made it clear that he had a lot of work to do before the team would get back to contending for Stanley Cups.
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Maybe Yzerman saw what was coming or maybe the team has underachieved, but we are now about halfway through the 2019-2020 season and the Red Wings are in last place by a country mile.
With a rebuild clearly in the works, you can bet Yzerman will be looking to make a trade prior to the Feb. 24 NHL trade deadline.
Here are three players who could be dealt.
Jimmy Howard
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Let's face it, Jimmy Howard is not the future goalie for the Detroit Red Wings but there are a few teams who will be contending for the playoffs who would like to add a veteran goaltender.
Before getting injured, Howard had been absolutely awful in the net this season, which could hurt his value, but look for Yzerman to get what he can.
Andreas Athanasiou
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Steve Yzerman said he was going to use the 2019-2020 season as a time to evaluate his team.
One player Yzerman is most likely looking at very closely is Andreas Athanasiou, who has struggled this season. Though Athanasiou is still young and has outstanding speed, he may not be in Yzerman's plans and if the Red Wings GM is not willing to give him a long-term contract, he will certainly become available for a trade.
Luke Glendening
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Luke Glendening is a veteran forward who also happens to have a very affordable contract. Because of that, Yzerman could look to trade him to a contending team looking to add some depth for their playoff run.
If the Red Wings decide to hold on to Glendening, he is under contract through the 2020-2021 season at a cheap price.
