Trevor Zegras #11 of the Anaheim Ducks
Red Wings Linked to Potential Blockbuster Trade for Former First-Round Pick
The Detroit Red Wings are in the thick of the playoff race, and a hypothetical trade proposal has them making a major move to bolster their roster. A user-generated trade on PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool has suggested a deal that would bring Trevor Zegras to Detroit in exchange for a package featuring Joe Veleno, Erik Gustafsson, and a 2025 first-round pick.
Proposed Trade Details
Red Wings Receive:
- Trevor Zegras (F)
Ducks Receive:
- Joe Veleno (F)
- Erik Gustafsson (D)
- 2025 first-round pick
If such a deal were to materialize, it would be a significant shake-up for both franchises. Detroit would be adding a dynamic, offensive-minded forward in Zegras, while Anaheim would receive a former first-rounder in Veleno, an experienced defenseman in Gustafsson, and a valuable future draft asset.
Zegras’ Struggles and Potential Fit in Detroit
Zegras, 22, is in the second year of a three-year, $17.25 million contract. Though immensely talented, he has struggled to find consistency this season, tallying six goals and nine assists for 15 points in 32 games. Injuries have played a role in his slower production, but a fresh start in Detroit could be exactly what he needs to regain his form.
With the Red Wings, Zegras would likely slot into the team’s top six, providing offensive creativity and playmaking ability. His ability to generate highlight-reel plays has made him a fan favorite, and Detroit could use his skill set as they push toward ending their playoff drought.
What Detroit Would Be Giving Up
While the deal would inject excitement into the Red Wings’ offense, it comes at a cost. Veleno, a 2018 first-round pick, has put up five goals and five assists for 10 points in 50 games this season. At 24 years old, he still has room for development, and the Ducks could see him as a long-term piece.
Gustafsson, a veteran defenseman on a two-year, $4 million deal, would provide Anaheim with additional blue-line stability. The 31-year-old has registered two goals and 11 assists for 13 points in 47 games.
Detroit would also be parting with a 2025 first-round pick, a valuable asset as the franchise continues building its young core. However, if the Red Wings believe Zegras can elevate their offense for the long haul, it may be a price worth paying.
Red Wings Fighting for a Playoff Spot
Detroit has been surging, going 7-2-1 in their last 10 games before the Four Nations Face-off break. At 28-22-5, they currently hold the final playoff spot, and head coach Todd McLellan believes the break comes at a perfect time for the team.
“We can take some time to breathe,” McLellan said. “As a staff, we’ll review where we’ve been and what we need to work on. … For us to move forward, [game-management skills] are going to have to improve.”
The Red Wings have not reached the postseason since the 2015-16 season, and adding a player like Zegras could be the type of bold move needed to push them over the edge.
Zegras’ Return From Injury
Zegras suffered a torn meniscus on December 4 but made his return to the Ducks’ lineup on January 21. The young forward acknowledged the frustration of missing time but is eager to contribute.
“During the process, it’s a bit frustrating,” Zegras said. “You want to play, you want to get back out there. You hate missing games, (especially) after last season. I feel good. I feel confident and strong and ready to go.”
Selected ninth overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, Zegras has accumulated 61 goals and 108 assists for 169 points in 243 career games. If a trade were to happen, Detroit would be acquiring a high-upside talent with the potential to be a game-changer down the stretch.
Will the Red Wings Make a Move?
While this trade scenario is purely hypothetical at this point, it raises an interesting question: Will Detroit be aggressive ahead of the trade deadline? With a playoff spot within reach, general manager Steve Yzerman could be looking to make a statement move.
Whether it’s Zegras or another player, the Red Wings have the opportunity to solidify their roster for a postseason push. The coming weeks will reveal if they’re willing to take the plunge.
