Yzerman Eyes Bold Moves to End Red Wings’ Playoff Drought — Filip Forsberg Trade Rumor Heats Up
After a ninth straight season without playoff hockey, Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman is making one thing clear: status quo isn’t an option. With Detroit itching to turn the corner, Yzerman has signaled his willingness to go big this offseason—whether through free agency or a blockbuster trade.
The NHL’s free agent market may lack star power this summer, but that hasn’t stopped speculation from swirling. One name already making waves? Nashville Predators forward Filip Forsberg. According to NHL analyst Sam Stockton of The Hockey News, the Red Wings could be eyeing the 76-point scorer as a potential trade target.
Why would Nashville part ways with their franchise winger? Stockton suggests the Predators, coming off a disappointing season, may explore a roster shakeup, possibly aiming to get younger. Detroit, meanwhile, has enticing assets to offer—young players who are NHL-ready or on the cusp.
“Forsberg still has five years left on his $68 million deal and a no-move clause, so any trade would have to be mutually agreeable,” Stockton noted. “But his blend of creativity, scoring touch, and physicality could transform Detroit’s top line.”
Adding Forsberg would allow the Red Wings to slot Jonatan Berggren or Alex DeBrincat more comfortably on the second line, significantly deepening the offensive core. With Forsberg and DeBrincat manning the left wing on the top two lines, Detroit’s scoring punch could finally match their playoff aspirations.
Yzerman, speaking on April 29, emphasized the club’s evolving mindset: “We’re in a different stage than five years ago. We’ve got a good young nucleus. If there’s a top player who wants to come to Detroit and fits our needs, we’ll go for it.”
The message is unmistakable: the Red Wings are ready to make noise—and Forsberg could be the marquee piece that puts them back on the playoff map.
