Mike Matheson #8 of the Montreal Canadiens
As the Detroit Red Wings‘ offseason continues, one major name remains conspicuously unsigned: star defenseman Moritz Seider, who is still a restricted free agent (RFA). While negotiations continue, fans and analysts have begun speculating on what the future holds for the 23-year-old, including some blockbuster trade proposals. One particularly eye-catching suggestion has emerged from PuckPedia’s new PuckGM tool, which allows fans to create their own trade scenarios.
In this scenario, the Red Wings would deal Seider to the Montreal Canadiens in a high-profile swap, acquiring defensemen Mike Matheson, David Reinbacher, and Lane Hutson in return.
Proposed Trade Breakdown:
Red Wings Acquire:
– Mike Matheson
– David Reinbacher
– Lane Hutson
Canadiens Acquire:
– Moritz Seider
This theoretical deal would send shockwaves through the NHL, with the Canadiens receiving one of the league’s top young defensemen, while Detroit would gain a package of promising assets.
The Hefty Price of Seider’s Talent
Seider, selected sixth overall by the Red Wings in the 2019 NHL Draft, has already solidified himself as a cornerstone of Detroit’s blue line. His resume includes winning the NHL’s Rookie of the Year award in 2022 and putting up 42 points (9 goals, 33 assists) across 82 games last season. The potential of Seider becoming Montreal’s best defenseman overnight makes the steep asking price unsurprising.
Detroit’s Haul
Detroit’s return would feature veteran defenseman Mike Matheson, who has two years remaining on his eight-year, $39 million deal. Matheson could immediately slot into the Red Wings’ top four on defense and might be used as a trade asset by the deadline if Detroit’s playoff hopes wane.
The key elements of the return, however, would be top prospects David Reinbacher and Lane Hutson. Reinbacher, the fifth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, is regarded as one of the most promising young defensemen in the game. He could push for NHL minutes as early as next season. Hutson, meanwhile, made his NHL debut last season and notched two assists in two games. At 20 years old, he’s still developing, but his potential as a top-pair defenseman is clear.
Seider’s RFA Status and Red Wings’ Confidence in a Deal
Seider has been an RFA since July 1 after completing his three-year, $2.59 million entry-level contract. While negotiations have dragged on, Detroit head coach Derek Lalonde isn’t concerned about the situation. He downplayed any worries, telling The Detroit Free Press, “I’m not worried. It’s all part of the process.”
Lalonde emphasized that Seider and fellow RFA Lucas Raymond remain integral to the Red Wings’ roster. “We want to progress, we want to keep moving, keep building this. Obviously, those two guys are a big part of it,” he said, expressing confidence that deals will get done before the start of the season.
Montreal’s Perspective: Reinbacher and Hutson’s Development
For the Canadiens, the theoretical trade would require parting with two highly-regarded defense prospects. However, the potential reward—acquiring a player of Seider’s caliber—might justify the risk.
Lane Hutson, in particular, could be a key piece for Detroit. Canadiens GM Kent Hughes hinted during an interview with BPM Sports that Hutson may spend time in the AHL to continue his development. “We want Lane Hutson to turn into the best defenseman that he can become,” Hughes said. “If he’s better off in the AHL, we’ll send him to Laval.”
With the Canadiens looking to shape a competitive blue line for the future, the idea of acquiring an established talent like Seider would be tantalizing, but it may come at the cost of their top young assets.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpFPdS2cX5g
Detroit’s Playoff Drought
As the Red Wings look to end their playoff drought—having missed the postseason since the 2015-16 season—decisions surrounding key players like Seider will be critical. Whether the team decides to hold onto their budding star or entertain a blockbuster trade proposal like the one fans have floated, Detroit’s path forward will be closely watched as the season approaches.
For now, Seider remains unsigned, and the possibility of a game-changing move remains in play.
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