The Detroit Red Wings are eager to break their playoff drought, and a new trade proposal could help them do just that by adding a gritty forward to their roster.
Using PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, a user has suggested a trade that would send Trent Frederic from the Boston Bruins to Detroit. In exchange, the Red Wings would give up Joe Veleno, Elmer Soderblom, and a 2025 seventh-round pick from St. Louis.
This trade proposal benefits both teams. The Red Wings would gain a tough, veteran presence in Frederic, while the Bruins would receive a former first-round pick in Veleno, who has had some struggles. Frederic is in the final year of his two-year, $4.6 million contract and could contribute physicality and offense on Detroit’s second or third line. This season, Frederic has 1 goal and 2 assists in 14 games.
Veleno, drafted 30th overall in 2018, has not lived up to expectations so far, with only 1 goal and 1 assist in 12 games this season. He is in the first year of a two-year, $4.55 million contract. Soderblom, currently in the AHL, may have a future as a bottom-six forward in the NHL, after recording 5 goals and 3 assists in 21 NHL games last season.
Frederic, set to become a free agent in July, has drawn interest from several teams, as NHL insider Kevin Weekes reported that his size, speed, toughness, and skill make him a highly sought-after asset.
The Red Wings are hoping to bolster their offensive lineup, which has been inconsistent at times. In their recent 4-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on November 6, Detroit showed promise as they kicked off a road trip. The win improved their record to 6-5-1, still chasing a playoff spot. Coach Derek Lalonde emphasized the importance of winning on the road for their success.
Detroit hasn’t made the playoffs since the 2015-16 season, but this could be the year they finally end their playoff drought.
