NHL Rumors: Red Wings Trade Interest Very Specific

The Detroit Red Wings are trying to work their way back into the playoff picture as the team currently sits at 20-21-6 on the season, good for nine points out of the second wild card spot. While they aren't likely to catch the Boston Bruins, general manager Steve Yzerman is doing whatever he can to upgrade the roster for the rest of this season and beyond. According to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff, the Wings are in the market for a second-line center.

Detroit has captain Dylan Larkin as their primary pivot and Pius Suter who is now occupying the second line slot. Suter is in his first season in Detroit and has recorded 20 points in 47 games so far in 2021-22. While he can also play the wing and potentially move down to the third slot, Suter isn't the ideal center for the team's second line.

Seravalli mentioned the Wings are speaking to other teams and are starting to zone in:

The Wings desperately need a second line center, the one-two punch to go with Dylan Larkin down the middle. Because right now, it’s a big drop off from Larkin to Pius Suter. Whether it’s now or this summer, that has to be the top priority. Other than that, don’t expect a ton from the Wings at the deadline, unless a decent return can be fetched for their pending UFAs. Yzerman made it clear last year that he’d rather keep a competitive environment.

No doubt about it, San Jose Sharks forward Tomas Hertl, who is a pending free agent, would be a target for the Red Wings as would Ryan Strome of the New York Rangers. The list of interest would also likely include Nazem Kadri from the Colorado Avalanche and Vincent Trocheck of the Carolina Hurricanes.

For now, look for Yzerman and company to try and get creative before the March 21 trade deadline. They are creating a winning culture once again in Motown and they'll look to continue to add talent this season and beyond.