The notion that the Detroit Red Wings would be well-served by pursuing a trade for Pittsburgh defenseman Erik Karlsson isn’t going away,

The Hockey Writers website is the latest media outlet to push the Karlsson-to-Detroit idea. It’s easy to endorse that  because the Red Wings want to add another veteran defenseman and they have more than $12 million in cap space remaining. Karlsson has two seasons left on a contract paying him $10 million. Detroit fans seem to be lining up behind the idea that the Red Wings could rid themselves of J.T. Compher’s $5.1 million cap hit in the deal. (He has a 10-team no-trade clause).

Hockey Writers’ Nicholas Giannone likes the trade for Detroit because he sees Karlsson as a missing piece. He sees the aging defender as the right-handed power play quarterback they really need.

The only problem with that thinking is Detroit already a productive power play, finishing fourth in the NHL last season with a 27% effectiveness. It’s run by right-shot defenseman Moritz Seider. While he is not as dynamic as Karlsson, he actually boasted a more productive power play season. Seider had four goals and 18 assists for 22 power play points. Karlsson, also a right shot, boasted 15 points. Karlsson also is a right-shot point man.

He’s also 35, and his recent playing level hasn’t been as impressive as it was in his prime years. Taking on Karlsson’s contract, especially with youngsters waiting their turn, is not a simple decision.

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Red Wings Extra

Just in case you are still unclear about Detroit’s 2025 first round pick Carter Bear’s abilities, Elite Prospects has a easy-to-understand ranking of his strengths and weaknesses.

Carter Bear is the newest member of the Detroit Red Wings! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/GCxy2Zzkmg

— Elite Prospects (@eliteprospects) June 28, 2025

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Although there wasn’t much doubt, Bruins draft pick James Hagens will be attending Boston College and not turning pro before the season.  Boston Bruins. 

Philadelphia: Swedish prospect Jack Berglund turned the Summer Showcase into his breakout party. He put up three goals and three assists for the Swedes. Philadelphia Flyers. 

Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski offers the five most under-appreciated Penguins in the Sidney Crosby era. Pittsburgh Penguins.