It’s no secret that the Detroit Red Wings aren’t exactly playoff contenders once again this season. Despite a moderate 2-2 start to the season, they’ve only won a single game since.
Of course, the fact that several players have missed extended periods of time due to COVID-19 protocols and injuries haven’t helped things.
Needless to say, the focus of GM Steve Yzerman will be on the future, and there are a handful of players on the roster who could be attractive options to be flipped in exchange for draft capital at this year’s Trade Deadline.
Let’s take a look at some of the potential names that could be dealt for draft picks.
1. Bobby Ryan
The strongest candidate for a Trade Deadline deal is forward Bobby Ryan, who was inked to a one-year contract by Steve Yzerman last offseason. The scoring forward has proven to be a wonderful comeback story, building on his comeback from substance abuse last season to set a Red Wings scoring record early this season.
2. Jonathan Bernier
Goaltender Jonathan Bernier is in the final year of a three-year contract he signed with Detroit in 2018, and is slated to become a free-agent at season’s end. He’s been a serviceable member of a mostly poor team, and could prove to be a valuable addition for a team looking to add goaltending depth for a playoff run.
3. Valtteri Filppula
The veteran forward is also in the final year of his contract, and would bring Stanley Cup-winning experience to a playoff bound roster as he’s done with the New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers and New York Islanders in the past. While his best days are behind him, Filppula remains a serviceable forward.
