Analyst suggests the Detroit Red Wings will trade Lucas Raymond

The Detroit Red Wings need to make significant acquisitions over the summer. After another disappointing season, Wings general manager Steve Yzerman is on the hot seat, and if he can't get the job done, he could be on the final stretch of his journey with the organization.

This could push him to make desperate moves, and according to a new report, he could go as far as considering trading Lucas Raymond.

Drafted 4th overall in 2020, Raymond has been a key player in Detroit for the past five years and has emerged as a top forward in the NHL, with 80 points, including 27 goals, in 82 games.

With seven seasons left on his $8,075,000 AAV contract signed in 2024, Raymond will be in a position to help his team win for a long time-at a very reasonable rate.

For the Wings to part ways with him, the return would need to be substantial, and the Islanders have what it takes.

Many rumors are out there, and the chances of seeing Yzerman actually trade Raymond seem slim. However, it got interesting when a new report suggested the Wings could offer him for the first overall pick to acquire top NHL prospect Matthew Schaefer from the New York Islanders.

The Isles already have great defensemen, and adding a player like Raymond-who could help the team win now-could be enticing.

As for the Wings, this trade would solve their blue line problems but create another hole to fill on the top line.

In my opinion, trading Raymond could be the decision that puts the final nail in Yzerman's coffin-unless he can get the first overall pick in return.

Let us know what you think in the comments!