Red Wings Named ‘Realistic’ Landing Spot For Erik Karlsson originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
As the Detroit Red Wings continue to build forward, the front office also understands the pressure being put on them. The Red Wings haven’t qualified for the postseason since the 2015-16 season, and this once-proud franchise has seen better days.
General manager Steve Yzerman has been at the helm for a few years, but the team hasn’t vastly improved. The clock is ticking on Yzerman to produce results with this organization, and it could see them make some big moves.
Detroit has been linked to a few names this offseason, and the front office is gauging the trade market. One name that could be solid for the Red Wings to consider is veteran defenseman Erik Karlsson of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Pittsburgh has been discussing Karlsson with a few teams, and the Red Wings are being named a landing spot. According to NHL insider John Shannon, the Red Wings are a “realistic” situation for Karlsson.
John Shannon: Re Erik Karlsson: Whether it’s Ottawa, which I would be shocked; Detroit, I think that’s a much more realistic situation; there’s some logical places – Inside Hockey (7/17)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) July 25, 2025
Last season with the Penguins, Karlsson put up 11 goals and 42 assists over 82 games played. With the Penguins in full rebuild mode, Karlsson has become available via trade, and a team like the Red Wings could make a push to land him.
Karlsson would make the Red Wings’ defense much stronger, and he could help them get over the hump in the Eastern Conference. This Red Wings team needs some sort of boost, and adding Karlsson to the mix could help.
Yzerman has been known for his aggressive moves in the past, and this could be the next in line. Detroit has to do something, and Karlsson could be the missing piece to get this team back to the postseason.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.