Red Wings looking for defenceman — The Fourth Period
The Detroit Red Wings are among the teams scouring the trade market for help on the blueline and are hoping to acquire a top-four defenceman, preferably with a right shot by the trade deadline.
With the deadline 11 days away, Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman has been exploring his options, according to multiple league sources, though it is unclear if he has made traction towards a deal.
The Red Wings reportedly expressed interest in Rasmus Andersson earlier in the season before the Calgary Flames traded him to the Vegas Golden Knights, while Detroit has also been linked to Philadelphia Flyers rearguard Rasmus Ristolainen.
Detroit has over $45 million in salary cap space and is not restricted by the cap to add to its roster before deadline day.
The Wings are also believed to be eyeing a centre and the club has expressed interest in St. Louis Blues pivot Robert Thomas.
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Thomas, 26, has five more years remaining on his contract after this season and comes with an $8.125 million salary cap hit. He also owns a full no-trade clause and while the Blues are willing to take calls on him, he will have to approve any trade the team attempts to complete.
The Wings are currently third in the Atlantic Division with a 33-19-6 record.
