12 Trade Targets the Detroit Red Wings Could Eye Ahead of the Deadline
With the NHL trade deadline fast approaching on March 6, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves in a familiar but intriguing position: right in the thick of the playoff race, but still a few key pieces away from making serious noise come spring. The front office has been deliberate in its rebuild, but with the team showing real signs of progress this season, the time might be right to make a move-or two.
If Detroit wants to solidify its playoff push, the two biggest needs are clear: a top-four defenseman who can eat minutes and stabilize the second pair, and a top-six forward who can help generate consistent offense. Fortunately for GM Steve Yzerman, there are several names on the trade board who could fit the bill.
Let’s break down 12 potential trade targets who could help the Red Wings address those needs.
Top-Four Defensemen
Justin Faulk - RHD, St. Louis Blues
Faulk brings a veteran presence and a right-handed shot, which Detroit could use on the second pairing. He’s reliable in his own zone, has playoff experience, and can contribute on the power play.
If the Blues are open to dealing him, Faulk could be a stabilizing force on Detroit’s blue line.
Mario Ferraro - LHD, San Jose Sharks
Ferraro is a high-motor defenseman who logs big minutes for a rebuilding Sharks team.
He’s not flashy, but he plays with an edge and could slot in nicely alongside a more offensive-minded partner. Given his age and contract, he wouldn’t be a rental-more of a long-term play.
Connor Murphy - RHD, Chicago Blackhawks
Murphy is a steady, stay-at-home type who could bring some grit to Detroit’s back end.
He’s used to playing tough minutes and would be a dependable presence in a second-pair role. With the Blackhawks focused on the future, he could be available at the right price.
Brett Kulak - LHD, Pittsburgh Penguins
Kulak is a solid depth option with playoff experience.
He’s not a top-pair guy, but he’s capable of playing meaningful minutes and wouldn’t cost a fortune in assets. If Detroit wants to shore up the left side without breaking the bank, Kulak is worth a look.
Logan Stanley - LHD, Winnipeg Jets
At 6-foot-7, Stanley brings size and physicality, but he’s still working to put it all together at the NHL level. He’s more of a project than a plug-and-play solution, but if the Wings want to roll the dice on upside, Stanley has tools worth developing.
Top-Six Forwards
Robert Thomas - C, St. Louis Blues
Thomas would be a dream addition for Detroit, but he’d also come with a hefty price tag. He’s a legitimate top-line center with elite vision and playmaking ability.
If the Blues are entertaining offers, Thomas would be a franchise-altering move.
Bryan Rust - RW, Pittsburgh Penguins
Rust is a proven playoff performer who can play up and down the lineup.
He brings speed, scoring touch, and a relentless motor-exactly the kind of player who could thrive in Detroit’s system. If the Penguins decide to retool, Rust could be a prime target.
Vincent Trocheck - C, New York Rangers
Trocheck is a versatile, two-way center who can win faceoffs, kill penalties, and chip in offensively.
He plays with bite and has postseason experience. If the Rangers are looking to shake things up, Trocheck would fit Detroit’s needs on both ends of the ice.
Steven Stamkos - C/RW, Nashville Predators
Yes, that Steven Stamkos.
The longtime Lightning captain is now with Nashville, and if the Predators decide to pivot toward the future, Stamkos could be a blockbuster deadline piece. He’s still got the scoring touch, and his leadership would be invaluable for a young Detroit core.
Blake Coleman - C/W, Calgary Flames
Coleman is the kind of player who shows up when it matters most.
He’s a tenacious forechecker, a penalty killer, and a guy who knows how to win. With Calgary potentially looking to retool, Coleman could be a perfect fit in Detroit’s middle six.
Jake DeBrusk - LW, Vancouver Canucks
DeBrusk has the speed and scoring ability to slot into Detroit’s top six.
He’s had an up-and-down career, but a change of scenery could unlock more consistency. Vancouver may be open to moving him, especially if they’re eyeing future assets.
Elias Pettersson - C, Vancouver Canucks
This is the big fish.
Pettersson is a dynamic, game-changing center who would instantly elevate Detroit’s offense. If the Canucks are truly listening on offers, the Red Wings would have to be bold-but adding a player of Pettersson’s caliber could alter the franchise’s trajectory.
Where the Red Wings Stand in the League-Wide Trade Landscape
Detroit isn’t the only team shopping for upgrades. Every contender-and even some rebuilders-have specific needs heading into the deadline.
- The Bruins want a right-shot defenseman.
- The Avalanche are eyeing a third-line center.
- The Oilers want speed and size in their bottom six.
- The Maple Leafs are looking for help on defense.
- The Golden Knights could use a middle-six forward.
- And the Ducks, still in rebuild mode, are hoping to find a more reliable No. 2 goalie.
As for the Red Wings, their biggest need remains a top-four defenseman. But if the right forward becomes available, especially one with term, don’t be surprised if Yzerman pulls the trigger. He’s shown time and again that he’s not afraid to make bold moves when the timing is right.
With the team trending upward and the playoff race heating up, the next few weeks could be pivotal for Detroit’s season-and its future.