It’s hardly a secret that the Detroit Red Wings are looking to add another top-six forward to complement their scoring. Ideally, the Red Wings would land a second-line center. But if one isn’t available, a scoring winger would be the next-best thing.
So, adding Josh Anderson from division rival, the Montreal Canadiens, could help alleviate the Red Wings’ need for a top-six forward.
Anderson is listed in the Fourth Period’s 2025 Summer Trade List. The rationale behind adding Anderson to the list lies in the Habs’ need to clear cap space this summer. It’s worth noting that the Habs don’t need to trade Anderson, but could do so if another deal opened up elsewhere.
That situation means that the Red Wings could benefit from Montreal’s potential cap-clearing move, getting Anderson for a relatively minor return.
Here’s what this trade idea could look like:
Red Wings get:
Josh Anderson, F
Canadiens get:
2026 third-round pick
2026 seventh-round pick
2027 third-round pick
The Red Wings could be willing to part with three later-round picks since the Canadiens wouldn’t be looking to get any salary back. Also, Anderson isn’t worth a first-round pick, nor is he worth giving up second-rounders.
So, two third-rounders and the Red Wings’ extra seventh-rounder in 2026 could be enough to grease the wheel. After all, the Canadiens are looking to dump Anderson’s cap hit. That’s why the team can’t expect to get a sizeable haul.
Why Josh Anderson Makes Sense for Red Wings
Josh Anderson could fit in well on the Red Wings’ second line. As it stands, Daily Faceoff projects Detroit’s top line as Dylan Larkin centering James van Riemsdyk and Lucas Raymond. No offense to van Riemsdyk, but he’s not the best option for the Wings’ top line.
Moving DeBrincat to the top line, with Anderson sliding into the second line, would do well to boost the Red Wings’ secondary scoring. Moreover, Anderson can play on either side. That versatility is valuable as it would allow the Wings to shift lines as needed.
Moreover, Anderson’s addition gives the Red Wings plenty of flexibility moving forward. He could slide up and down the lineup as needs dictate. If needed, Anderson could play on the top line. That’s why Detroit would be remiss to pass on Anderson if an opportunity to acquire him became available.
Anderson Comes with 2 Years Left on Contract
Also, Josh Anderson fits Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman’s blueprint. Yzerman is believed to be wary of adding veteran players on long-term deals. Anderson comes with two years left on his current contract with a cap hit of $5.5 million.
The best part is that, if the Wings need to, they could move Anderson at the trade deadline to recoup the draft picks used to acquire him.
Ultimately, landing Anderson boils down to getting him for late-round picks. Giving up a first or second-round pick just wouldn’t be worth it. The price has to be right in order for the Red Wings to cash in on the Canadiens’ potential cap dump.
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