Detroit Red Wings Expected to Make Blockbuster Trade in 2026 NHL Offseason

John Jones-Imagn Images 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 said the organization needs better players to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Now, a prominent NHL insider is throwing more gas on the fire for Detroit.

People are going to be “shocked” if the Red Wings don’t pull of a big trade or move this summer, as reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast . This has been one of the most talked about aspects of Detroit’s offseason and all signs point toward an elite offensive forward in a trade or signing. Who could the Detroit Red Wings trade for during 2026 offseason?

Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images The Red Wings are expected to pull of a major trade during the 2026 NHL offseason and a top six forward should be the first priority. Yzerman said the five-on-five play and goal scoring were issues during the 2025-26 NHL season, so a physical, high-profile offensive player would be the best fit. There are a few names that stand out amongst the rest.

If Detroit is swinging big, it should try to acquire Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk or Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews . These might be pipe dream additions, but if either are truly involved in trade rumors this summer, the organization should make a run. If not, Detroit has other options that it can consider on the trade market.