The Detroit Red Wings need to make a big splash during the 2026 NHL offseason. Following the 2025–26 NHL season, Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman stated that the organization needed better players to make the Stanley Cup playoffs. Now, a prominent NHL insider is throwing more gas on the fire for Detroit.
If the Red Wings don't make a big trade or move this summer, people will be "surprised," as Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports on the 32 Thoughts Podcast. This has been one of the most talked about aspects of Detroit's offseason and all signs point towards a trade or signing for an elite offensive forward.
Who could the Detroit Red Wings trade for during the 2026 offseason?
The Red Wings are expected to make a major trade during the 2026 NHL offseason and top six forwards should be the first priority. Yzerman said there were issues with five-on-five play and goal scoring during the 2025–26 NHL season, so a physical, high-profile offensive player would be the best fit. There are some names which are different from the rest.
If Detroit is looking to land a big move, they should try to acquire Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk or Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews. These may be hypotheticals, but if any of these guys are actually involved in trade rumors this summer, the organization should run. If not, Detroit has other options it can consider in the trade market.
Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson would be a perfect fit. Robertson is an incredible offensive player, currently having 49 goals between the regular season and playoffs. The situation in Dallas is tough and the star forward is due to get a new contract after the season.
The Stars will have Robertson's rights as a restricted free agent, so it would be wise to extract value if the organization doesn't have room for him long-term. The Red Wings have the space and assets to do that and Robertson would be a great addition.
If not, there are other players still on the market, like Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Pettersson and St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas. While neither of them are at the same height as Tkachuk, Matthews or Robertson, they would provide a much-needed boost to Detroit's offense.
The NHL would be surprised if the Red Wings fail to make a blockbuster move, so that should give them a reason to feel that way.
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