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Detroit Red Wings Linked to Trade of Penguins Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Levine | Last updated Sep 10, 2025 1:30 PM ET

It has been a long time since the Detroit Red Wings made the playoffs. In total, it's been nine years since Detroit reached the postseason, and it has been a very long decade for the fans.

The Red Wings are one of the more historic teams in the NHL, making this drought even tougher on the organization. So, entering the upcoming season, the Red Wings front office has a lot of pressure on it to finally break through.

Detroit still needs some extra pieces on the roster to make it happen, but it seems that they could still have some moves up their sleeve. The Red Wings are being linked to a former All-Star defenseman.

Erik Karlsson Linked to Detroit Red Wings

According to NHL insider Josh Yohe, the Red Wings are being linked to Pittsburgh Penguins star defender Erik Karlsson. Karlsson has been put into trade rumors all offseason, and there could be a late summer trade of him.

Josh Yohe: Re Erik Karlsson: I wouldn't be shocked if you hear his name pop up sooner rather than later; Detroit's the team I've heard the most - Kevin Karius Show (9/9)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) September 9, 2025

Karlsson proved that he could still make a big impact on the ice last season for the Penguins. With Pittsburgh, the veteran put up 11 goals and 42 assists over 82 games played in the regular season.

The biggest issue with any potential trade of Karlsson is his large contract. The Penguins star is scheduled to receive $11.5 million in each of the next two seasons.

However, if he were to help the Red Wings get back to the playoffs, it could be a worthwhile investment. Detroit has to do something of substance to get over the hump, and potentially adding an All-Star talent like Karlsson could be the perfect move to make.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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