Proposed Trade Sends $65 Million Scorer to Detroit Red Wings
The Detroit Red Wings face a busy offseason as they aim to strengthen their roster and make a serious playoff push. One of their key challenges is bolstering their scoring depth. According to NHL writer Adam Getz, general manager Steve Yzerman could address this issue by trading with a familiar partner, the St. Louis Blues.
St. Louis has a decision to make regarding forward Jordan Kyrou, who has emerged as a top offensive talent for the team. Over the last three seasons, Kyrou has led the Blues with 104 goals, and his 36 Goals Above Replacement (GAR) and 6.0 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) also top the team during that span.
However, Kyrou’s contract includes no-trade protections that kick in on July 1, and with a new general manager, Alex Steen, set to take over in 2026, the Blues may see this as a prime time to capitalize on Kyrou’s high trade value.
Given these circumstances, Getz suggests that the Red Wings could be a potential destination for Kyrou. Yzerman is known for being cautious about trading long-term assets for short-term gains, but Kyrou could fit into the Red Wings’ core for the future.
“With the No. 13 overall pick and a deep farm system, the Red Wings could put together an attractive offer that could get the Blues’ attention and make them consider trading Kyrou before his no-trade protections kick in,” Getz wrote.
Kyrou’s Trade Value Would Be High
While it’s unlikely that St. Louis will part ways with Kyrou, the potential for a significant return in a trade could make it worth considering. As the Blues’ most reliable goal scorer over the past three seasons, Kyrou played a key role in helping them reach the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. His production continues to be strong, and he doesn’t show signs of slowing down.
For the Red Wings, a goal scorer like Kyrou is highly coveted. Of the 27 players who have scored 100+ goals in the past three seasons, none played for Detroit. Kyrou’s consistent production and long-term contract—currently at $8.125 million annually—make him an appealing target, though St. Louis is under no immediate pressure to trade him.
Yzerman has shown a willingness to make big moves involving draft picks and prospects, but the right opportunity has yet to materialize. Should Kyrou become available, the general manager will need to decide if he’s ready to pull the trigger on a major deal.
Red Wings’ Offense Struggled in 2024-25
After a strong offensive showing in the 2023-24 season, Detroit’s offense took a downturn in 2024-25. While their power play remained effective, they struggled to generate goals at even strength.
Alex DeBrincat came close to reaching 40 goals, finishing with 39, and Dylan Larkin added 30 goals. However, beyond those two, only two other players scored more than 20 goals, and rookie Marco Kasper had 19.
This highlights Detroit’s clear need for a player like Kyrou to provide scoring depth and help them contend in the competitive Eastern Conference. How the Red Wings address this need in the coming months will be intriguing, and a move for a dynamic goal scorer like Kyrou could be a key part of their plans.
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