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Tensions Growing Between Red Wings and Top Defenseman: Could Be Trade Target for Penguins
The Pittsburgh Penguins could look to potentially acquire defenseman Erik Gustafsson from the Red Wings after what was a disappointing 1st year for him in Detroit.
The Pittsburgh Penguins missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the 3rd straight year, marking the longest drought of Sidney Crosby's NHL career.
Penguins general manager Kyle Dubas has already made a major change for the franchise, removing head coach Mike Sullivan after nearly 10 years on the job.
There will be other moves made to the roster and the Penguins could take advantage of a situation from a former rival that they faced in the 2008 and 2009 Stanley Cup Final.
Red Wings defenseman Erik Gustafsson was unhappy after being demoted by the Swedish squad in the 2025 IIHF World Championships, getting slotted into the 3rd defensive pairing after Washington Capitals defenseman Rasmus Sandin arrived following his club's elimination from the postseason.
Gustafsson and the Swedes were knocked from the World Championship by the American squad, who beat them 6-2.
He made it clear in no uncertain terms that he would rather be watching the game from the stands rather than be demoted to the 7th defenseman.
It sucks to be 7th. I'd rather be in the stands. It sucks. I don't know if I should say much. I'm sitting on the bench and can't do much.
Gustafsson has 1 year left on his contract with the Red Wings with an AAV (average annual value) of $2 million. He could be made expendable, especially if young prospect Axel Sandin-Pellikka earns a roster spot.
Should Kyle Dubas and the Penguins come knocking?
| POLL | ||
MAI 24 | 91 ANSWERS Tensions Growing Between Red Wings and Top Defenseman: Could Be Trade Target for Penguins Should the Penguins try and acquire Erik Gustafsson? | ||
| Yes | 52 | 57.1 % |
| No | 39 | 42.9 % |
| List of polls | ||