Leaked details on a failed blockbuster between the Red Wings and Bruins at NHL trade deadline
Photo credit: The New York Times
While the Detroit Red Wings picked up Petr Mrazek and Craig Smith at the Trade Deadline, how close were they to making other moves?
The Detroit Red Wings confused their fans by making an unusual move, trading for former goaltender Petr Mrazek from the Chicago Blackhawks (along with veteran forward Craig Smith).
The move was strange considering that not only was Mrazek the worst statistical goaltender in the NHL since the month of December, but that he's also signed for another year. Many fans figured that next year would be the chance for highly-touted goalie prospect Sebastian Cossa to have a shot at a full-time spot in the NHL.
But how close were the Red Wings to separate moves?
Per The Hockey Writers, a source indicated that the Red Wings were also on the verge of making other deals but were outbid.
According to a source, the Red Wings had deep conversations with the Boston Bruins about defenseman Brandon Carlo. Ultimately, the Bruins opted to hold out for a better deal, and got one from the Toronto Maple Leafs.
While what was involved in Detroit's offer is unclear, adding Carlo would have solidified Detroit's defense now and moving in the future. The 28-year-old blueliner is signed for two more years at $4.1 million.
Carlo could have played a shutdown role on Detroit's second pair, freeing up Moritz Seider to play more minutes in the offensive zone. His contract also would have timed well with Axel Sandin Pellikka's development, allowing Detroit's top prospect to gradually take on more responsibility over the next two years.
Ultimately, Detroit got outbid. And now adding a top-four defenseman (or two) will be a top priority this offseason.
While what was involved in Detroit's offer is unclear, adding Carlo would have solidified Detroit's defense now and moving in the future. The 28-year-old blueliner is signed for two more years at $4.1 million.
Carlo could have played a shutdown role on Detroit's second pair, freeing up Moritz Seider to play more minutes in the offensive zone. His contract also would have timed well with Axel Sandin Pellikka's development, allowing Detroit's top prospect to gradually take on more responsibility over the next two years.
Ultimately, Detroit got outbid. And now adding a top-four defenseman (or two) will be a top priority this offseason.
So far in the pair of games that Mrazek has played since returning to the Red Wings, he's allowed a total of 6 goals.
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MARS 16 | 226 ANSWERS Leaked details on a failed blockbuster between the Red Wings and Bruins at NHL trade deadline Should the Red Wings have picked up defensive help at the NHL Trade Deadline? | ||
| Yes | 193 | 85.4 % |
| No | 33 | 14.6 % |
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