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The real reason why Steve Yzerman did not make a move at the NHL trade deadline
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While Red Wings fans everywhere were hoping that GM Steve Yzerman would make a significant move at the Deadline, the real reason he didn't has been leaked.
More than a few Detroit Red Wings fans were disappointed when general manager Steve Yzerman didn't do anything to give a boost to Detroit's struggling blue line at the Trade Deadline earlier this month.
However, there could be a good reason for that.
Top-rated defensive prospect Axel Sandin-Pellikka, who has drawn comparisons to Colorado Avalanche star defenseman Cale Makar, could make his NHL debut before this year draws to a close.
Sandin-Pellikka, who is playing with Akellefteå AIK in the Swedish Hockey League and was taken with the 17th overall pick by Detroit in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, could make the jump to North America sooner rather than later, according to comments made by Yzerman shortly after the completion of the Trade Deadline.
It's a possibility for sure...What I prefer to say is historically, it's been done with players under contract and whatnot once their season is over. I think out of respect to him and his team, they're focused on making the playoffs and having a good run, and we'll see what happens once his season is over...It's definitely something to consider.
He has 29 points (12G, 17A) in 46 games in the SHL this year. He was also the captain for Team Sweden in the World Junior Championship earlier this year, and was later named the top defenseman of the tournament.
The Red Wings did make a pair of moves at the Deadline, trading underachieving former 1st round draft pick Joe Veleno to the Chicago Blackhawks for goaltender Petr Mrazek and veteran 4th line forward Craig Smith.
| POLL | ||
MARS 18 | 233 ANSWERS The real reason why Steve Yzerman did not make a move at the NHL trade deadline Should Axel Sandin-Pellikka make his Red Wings debut this year? | ||
| Yes | 200 | 85.8 % |
| No | 33 | 14.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
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