Detroit Red Wings trade the 13th overall pick: Steve Yzerman faces crucial decision during NHL draft Friday
Photo credit: Woodward Sports Network
Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman is facing a crucial decision when it comes to the start of tonight's 2025 NHL Entry Draft, and whether to use the pick or deal it for a player who could help them immediately instead of years from now.
Once again, the Detroit Red Wings got zero luck in the NHL Draft Lottery, as they once again moved back in the selection order.
There has been no NHL team over the last several years that has moved back as many overall spots as the Red Wings, a harsh reality and major source of frustration for their fans (and likely team management, as well).
The Red Wings will have the 13th overall pick while having to watch the New York Islanders, who had made the postseason for 5 straight seasons before this year, draft 1st overall.
But will GM Steve Yzerman use the selection, or could he choose to trade the pick for a player who could help them right now instead of years down the road?
Todd Matthews of Octopus Thrower has a simple message for Yzerman - trade the pick.
If I'm Steve Yzerman, I'm trying to trade the pick. The team he's got hasn't made the playoffs in nearly a decade, fans aren't happy, and the franchise is heading into its 100th season.
Missing the playoffs isn't an option, and Yzerman already has an outstanding prospect pool. There's no need to keep that pick.
Missing the playoffs isn't an option, and Yzerman already has an outstanding prospect pool. There's no need to keep that pick.
The Red Wings can't afford another year of middling and underwhelming summer moves, and it will be a major blow in the eyes of the fans if they feel Detroit isn't doing everything it can to end the longest playoff drought in team history during their 100th year in the NHL.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
| POLL | ||
JUIN 27 | 182 ANSWERS Detroit Red Wings trade the 13th overall pick: Steve Yzerman faces crucial decision during NHL draft Friday Will the Red Wings use the 13th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft or should they trade it for a player who can help them now? | ||
| Use it | 102 | 56 % |
| Trade it | 80 | 44 % |
| List of polls | ||
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