Red Wings Must Address Top-Line Concerns with Major Trade Before 2024-25 Season Opener…see more…
Urgency Grows in Detroit to Bolster Top Scoring Line as Playoff Hopes Hinge on Offensive Reinforcement
With the 2024-25 NHL season rapidly approaching, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. After a promising but ultimately disappointing finish last season, one glaring issue remains unresolved: the lack of elite production from the top line. Despite improvements in depth scoring and a reinvigorated blue line, the Red Wings’ first line failed to consistently generate offense at a level needed to contend in the loaded Eastern Conference.
Now, with training camp just weeks away, there is growing consensus around the league — and within Detroit’s own front office — that a major trade is necessary to fix the top line before opening night.
A Promising Foundation, But One Major Hole
General Manager Steve Yzerman has made no secret of his desire to build through the draft and supplement the team with smart trades and calculated free-agent signings. In recent years, he’s brought in key contributors like Alex DeBrincat and J.T. Compher, and younger players such as Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider continue to progress. But the chemistry between DeBrincat and Dylan Larkin — once expected to become a dominant duo — has not materialized as hoped.
Larkin, the team captain, is a two-way center who consistently produces in the 60–70 point range, but he’s never had a true elite winger to play alongside. DeBrincat showed flashes but went through prolonged slumps, and Raymond, while improving, may be better suited for a second-line role for now.
Detroit’s top line, as constructed, simply hasn’t scared opposing defenses.
Why the Pressure Is On Now
The Red Wings were in playoff contention until the final week last season, and expectations have risen as a result. Yzerman’s rebuild is entering its next phase — one where playoff berths are expected, not hoped for. But in a hyper-competitive Atlantic Division featuring the likes of Toronto, Florida, Boston, and a surging Buffalo squad, Detroit can’t afford to limp into the season without addressing their scoring issues.
According to sources close to the organization, Detroit’s front office has been actively exploring trade options, with an emphasis on acquiring a high-end winger or center who can elevate the top line. A few names have surfaced in league circles, including Clayton Keller (Coyotes), Nikolaj Ehlers (Jets), and Martin Necas (Hurricanes), each potentially available due to cap or contract issues.
The Cost of Doing Business
Making a major trade won’t come cheap. The Red Wings possess an enviable prospect pipeline, with players like Marco Kasper, Nate Danielson, and Axel Sandin Pellikka drawing interest from around the league. If Yzerman is serious about pushing for the playoffs this year, one of those prized assets may need to be included in a trade package.
There’s also the cap space consideration. While Detroit has some flexibility, any big trade would likely mean taking on significant salary or moving out a current roster player like Robby Fabbri or Andrew Copp to make room.
Still, the benefits of pulling the trigger now outweigh the risks. Another year of underperformance from the top line could derail the team’s postseason hopes and stunt the momentum that has been slowly building.
Who Might Be Available?
Here are a few trade targets that could reshape Detroit’s first line:
Clayton Keller (Arizona Coyotes)
Keller, 25, is coming off a 76-point season and has quietly become one of the league’s most underrated wingers. With the Coyotes once again in flux, there’s speculation he could be pried loose for the right package.
Martin Necas (Carolina Hurricanes)
A versatile winger with speed and playmaking ability, Necas may be the odd man out in Carolina’s cap crunch. He could slot in seamlessly alongside Larkin and DeBrincat.
Trevor Zegras (Anaheim Ducks)
Though more of a longshot, Zegras has been in trade rumors due to inconsistent play and a reportedly strained relationship with Ducks management. His offensive upside would give Detroit a dynamic weapon.
Nikolaj Ehlers (Winnipeg Jets)
The speedy Dane has one year left on his deal and could provide immediate offensive punch. He’s been a 60-point player with first-line capabilities.
Any of these players would represent a significant upgrade and potentially transform the Red Wings’ top line from a liability into a strength.
What Happens If They Don’t Make a Move?
If Yzerman opts to stand pat, the pressure will fall squarely on internal growth. Raymond would need to take a major leap, DeBrincat would have to rebound from his streaky season, and Larkin would again be forced to carry the load.
That’s a tall order in a conference that boasts superstars on every contending team. Detroit may still compete, but the margin for error would shrink dramatically.
Moreover, there’s the question of morale. Failing to make a bold move might signal a lack of urgency or ambition to players in the locker room — especially veterans who are entering their primes and want to win now.
A Defining Moment for Yzerman
Steve Yzerman’s legacy in Detroit as a player is secure. As a GM, he has made savvy moves and overseen a disciplined rebuild. But fans and analysts alike agree: this is the moment to shift into aggressive mode.
Whether that means flipping a top prospect or shedding future picks, the opportunity to solidify the top line and take a real step forward is now. Standing still could lead to another near-miss season — a scenario Detroit can no longer afford.
Final Word
The Red Wings have made significant strides, but one glaring weakness remains: an underperforming top line that lacks elite firepower. A big trade isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity if Detroit hopes to break its playoff drought and reclaim its place among the NHL’s elite. With the 2024-25 season looming, the time to act is now.
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🚨 Red Wings fans — it’s now or never. Detroit must fix its top line with a big trade before the 2024-25 season begins, or risk another year of falling short. Full story ⬇️ #LGRW #NHL #RedWings
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