Detroit Red Wings
The Daily: Chychrun Trade Rumors; Bertuzzi’s Name Starts to Pop Up
Based on the noise level surrounding Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun, it seems likely he will be dealt sooner rather than later.
The Coyotes sat him out of their last game Saturday because they believed a trade was imminent. The Los Angeles Kings were identified as the likely new team for Chychrun. But no transaction occurred Sunday. Presumably, the Kings will try to close the Chychrun deal today. Based on various reports it seems as if the Kings are refusing to part with prospect defenseman Brandt Clarke (drafted No. 8, 2021).
Could the Boston Bruins still be in the Chychrun hunt?
Meanwhile, Erik Karlsson picked up three more points in a 4-1 win against the Washington Capitals. He’s had a dominating, Norris Trophy-caliber season. He has 73 points in 54 games, which puts him on pace for a 100-point season. Here’s the latest from 32 Thoughts:
Last season, Karlsson seemed untradeable because of his $11.5 million contract. He has four years remaining on his deal after this season. Now there seems to be interest, including from the Edmonton Oilers. Can you imagine how he would look with Edmonton’s high octane offense? The Sharks will have to retain half of his salary to make any deal happen.
The Red Wings have also started to be mentioned in trade rumors about Tyler Bertuzzi. Like Dylan Larkin, he can be an unrestricted free agent. It was anticipated that negotiations for a new deal would be challenging. Not much has leaked out, but nothing appears imminent.
Bertuzzi Speculation
It is presumed that GM Steve Yzerman will trade Bertuzzi rather than let him go through free agency. Sportsnet’s Jeff Marek recently linked the Dallas Stars, Tampa Bay Lightning and Edmonton Oilers to exploring the possibility of acquiring the spunky Bertuzzi. Detroit Hockey Now had those three teams on its list of potential suitors in January.
The Red Wings will be looking for a combination of draft pick and player or players for Bertuzzi. His style seems like a good fit for a contender looking for more grit for the postseason.
If you wonder who might replace Bertuzzi, think about Denver standout Carter Mazur who is tied for third in NCAA Division 1 scoring with 19 goals. He plays a feisty style like Bertuzzi. It seems likely the Red Wings would sign him after his sophomore season is completed.
What a move & shot by Carter Mazur, as he scores his 19th of the season in impressive fashion. pic.twitter.com/qgD2CgmVkg
— Denver Hockey (@DU_Hockey) February 11, 2023
Red Wings In Case You Missed It
With 10 goals, Jonatan Berggren has already established himself as a key performer in the Detroit Red Wings offense.
The Red Wings, seven points out of a playoff spot, only have a long-shot hope of making up that ground. They start a crucial five-game road trip tonight that will likely fuel or destroy their postseason ambition.
The 6-foot-8 Elmer Soderblom is starting to explore how to use his size effectively with the Grand Rapids Griffins.
Red Wings’ Next Game
The Red Wings (23-20-8) play the Vancouver Canucks (21-28-4) in Vancouver tonight. Lucas Raymond and Jake Walman, both with undisclosed injuries, are day-to-day.
Hockey Now Network
Boston: Bruins show some rust in loss to the Washington Capitals. Boston Bruins.
Colorado: Penguins center Jeff Carter finally speaks about his hit on Cale Makar. Colorado Avalanche
Florida: Panthers embark on critical road trip. The Panthers are still three points out of a playoff spot. Florida Panthers.
Los Angeles Kings: Goalie Pheonix Copley received a one-year, one-way contract extension, carrying an AAV of $1.5 million. Los Angeles Kings
Montreal: Canadiens’ young talent rises up in triumph over hot Edmonton Oilers team. Montreal Canadiens.
New York: Stefen Rosner says now is not the time to fire coach Lane Lambert. New York Islanders.
Philadelphia: Flyers look like a tired team in a 4-3 loss to the Seattle Kraken. Philadelphia Flyers.
Vegas: The Golden Knights have won three in a row, but goalie Logan Thompson was injured on Thursday night. He’s week-to-week with a lower-body injury. Vegas Golden Knights
Washington: The Caps “gotta look in the mirror and say we’ve got to be better.” Washington Capitals.