3 Detroit Red Wings Offseason Trade Candidates

The Detroit Red Wings have been struggling big time down the stretch and find themselves on the wrong side of the playoff line with the end of the season almost here. If they end up missing the playoffs, they should be making some moves this summer.

Due to this, let's look at three Red Wings who could be traded during the 2026 NHL offseason.

Alex DeBrincat

DeBrincat could be a player to keep an eye on as a trade candidate this offseason. If contract extension talks do not go well between him and the Red Wings during the summer, it is fair to wonder if Detroit will listen to offers for him. He would be too valuable of a trade asset to potentially lose for nothing during the 2027 NHL offseason. However, the Red Wings' top priority should be to get an extension done with DeBrincat.

Mason Appleton

Appleton has not been the best fit with the Red Wings this season. In 65 games this season, he has six goals, eight assists, and a minus-4 rating. With Appleton entering the final season of his contract in 2026-27 and the Red Wings having other options, they could look to move him during the summer.

JT Compher

The Red Wings would likely be open to trading Compher and his $5.1 million cap hit this offseason. The 31-year-old forward has struggled this season, as he has recorded 11 goals and 26 points in 78 games. With this, it would not be shocking if the Red Wings looked to upgrade their third-line center spot and dealt Compher this offseason.