Simon Edvinsson requests a trade from the Detroit Red Wings
Photo credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
The Detroit Red Wings have a brand new problem on the blue line. Restricted free agent Simon Edvinsson has reportedly told the organization that he "prefers" to be traded rather than commit to a new deal in Detroit, a stunning twist in a standoff that has dragged past opening night.
How the Standoff Reached This Point
Edvinsson, 23, reported to training camp without a contract and skated with teammates, a show of good faith that many viewed as a sign he wanted to stay.
Talks never gained traction, though, and he has since returned to Sweden, where he has been training with Frölunda of the SHL.
The sides appear split on term. David Pagnotta reported that Edvinsson wants a maximum seven-year contract worth between $9 million and $11 million annually, while Chris Johnston and Elliotte Friedman have both said Detroit is mainly pitching a shorter bridge deal.
The cap math makes that position tough to explain. Detroit holds roughly $17 million in cap space, and the comparison point is fresh, with Zeev Buium landing an eight-year extension in Vancouver carrying a $9.38 million cap hit.
What Happens Next for Detroit
Trading Edvinsson will not be simple. Pierre LeBrun reported that other clubs have called to ask about his availability, yet interim GM Shawn Horcoff's focus has been on re-signing him.
Because he is unsigned, any trade partner would also inherit the same contract fight, and the pressure on Detroit to act grows with every game he misses.
The shift is notable because Edvinsson publicly said last month that Detroit means more to him than anywhere else, and that he passed on offer-sheet interest. If the report holds, that goodwill has run out.
For a franchise already dealing with the Dylan Larkin situation and a front office in transition, losing a 23-year-old, sixth overall pick from 2021 who produced 25 points in 72 games last season would sting.
Detroit now has to decide whether to give in on term or pivot toward a trade market that is waiting.
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