Report: Red Wings preparing to sell at NHL Trade Deadline

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The Detroit Red Wings saw their legendary 25 year playoff streak come to an end last season, coincidently in their final season at Joe Louis Arena. So far this season, it isn’t appearing likely that a new streak will begin at Little Caesars Arena.

The Atlantic‘s Craig Custance is reporting that according to an “NHL source”, the Red Wings are preparing once again to be dealers at the NHL’s trade deadline, just as they were last season. This source apparently indicated that the only untouchable assets Detroit has right now are Dylan Larkin, Anthony Mantha and Andreas Athanasiou.

The most attractive piece Detroit has to offer is pending free-agent defenseman Mike Green. The three year contract he signed with the Red Wings in the summer of 2015 expires at season’s end, and he could be attracted as a rental by a contending team. Detroit could command second and third round draft picks (or perhaps even two first rounders) in return for Green, who does have a no-trade clause in his contract.

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Though his name is mired in trade possibilities, he insists he’s not focused on it.

“I can’t give you the answer to that right now,” Green said. “As I said, I haven’t even thought about it, so I don’t want to give you a half answer. A lot can go on, and obviously there’s a potential for it, but as of right now I’m focused on day to day here. Everything is speculation until something happens.” 

One potential destination for Green could be the expansion Vegas Golden Knights, who are the surprise story of the NHL this season so far as they are currently the top team in the league. GM George McPhee, formerly the GM of the Washington Capitals (Green’s former team) was in attendance at Little Caesars Arena on Tuesday night, possibly scouting him.

The Red Wings could also potentially look to move one of their two goaltenders. The obvious choice would be Petr Mrazek, who’s contract expires at the end of the year as well.

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Once touted as the starter of the future, he’s been mired in inconsistency for nearly two years now, sporting a less than spectacular.896 save percentage and 3.22 goals-against average in his past 78 games.

However, with his solid play of late, his trade value is increasing, and he could be an asset for a team looking for goaltending depth. Teams such as the New York Islanders and Carolina Hurricanes could be possibilities.

This year’s trade deadline is Monday, February 26.