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NHL Analyst Links Nikolaj Ehlers to One Specific Team in Free Agency

Originally posted on Hockey Latest | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 3:08 PM ET

NHL analyst Justin Barry believes that Nikolaj Ehlers' time in Winnipeg is over, and he has linked the skilled forward to one specific Eastern Conference team.

Nikolaj Ehlers is becoming a player to keep an eye on with NHL free agency on the horizon, and the Detroit Red Wings have become legitimate suitors for the Winnipeg Jets' left winger, per NHL analyst Justin Barry.

As the calendar inches closer to July 1, rumors are building about a potential deal that would reshape Detroit's forward group.

Ehlers, 29, is a premium skater, has creativity, and is a great goal-scoring winger. He's reached 20+ goals in six of the last eight seasons and would be a direct upgrade on the wing for the Red Wings.

His play-driving and even-strength scoring are incredibly valuable to a team attempting to take the next step in their rebuild.

The Red Wings are reportedly ready to spend over $40 million on Ehlers

Several reports indicate that Detroit is willing to sacrifice up to $42 million to bring Ehlers aboard, a figure that says a lot about how highly he's valued.

For the Red Wings, the signing would be a statement towards becoming playoff contenders and a message from GM Steve Yzerman.

On the horizon of free agency, Ehlers' future remains one of the biggest narratives. Signing him would be a franchise-altering move that adds depth to the Red Wings' top-six and gets a fan base desperate for a return to playoff riches.

The loss of Ehlers would also be shattering to fans of the Jets.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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