The Detroit Red Wings are looking to build their team’s depth this season in every way they can. One of the areas sorely lacking significant depth is the forward group. The team could use a middle-six forward, especially one who could add solid two-way play.
That’s why this trade pitch has the Red Wings landing Evan Rodrigues, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, from the Florida Panthers. Rodrigues has been included in the Fourth Period’s Summer Trade List amid the Panthers’ potential cap issues. The list has also linked the Red Wings as a potential suitor for the 31-year-old forward.
It’s worth pointing out that the Panthers don’t want to trade Rodrigues. But they may have to in order to remain cap compliant heading into next season. Moreover, Rodrigues has generated plenty of interest around the league and could draw a good return for Florida.
So, here’s a look at what this trade idea could look like:
Red Wings get:
Evan Rodrigues, F
2026 sixth-round pick
Panthers get:
2026 second-round pick
2026 seventh-round pick
William Lagesson, D
John Leonard, F
The return may seem somewhat underwhelming for the Panthers. But please bear in mind the Panthers cannot take on any contracts at the moment. The club is nearly $4 million over the cap and needs to get below the ceiling.
The main return for Rodrigues would be the second-rounder in 2026. The Panthers may ask for a first-round pick, but it’s unlikely they’ll get it.
William Lagesson and John Leonard are depth players who could head to the AHL for the Panthers. As such, they serve to round out the team’s depth without costing them anything against the cap.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Red Wings
Beyond needing another middle-six forward, the Red Wings need someone who can play in various situations. That’s what Evan Rodrigues delivers. He can kill penalties, play in key defensive situations, and even suit up in the second power play unit.
The Red Wings have lacked that sort of player in the past. Rodrigues is the type of player whom Todd McLellan can rely on, especially with more young players coming up into the Red Wings’ lineup.
Overall, adding Evan Rodrigues makes sense on all fronts for the Red Wings. His $3 million cap hit is reasonable and doesn’t shackle the team if it wants to pursue other moves.
Rodrigues’ Contract Fits into Yzerman’s Vision
Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman’s vision this summer has been to avoid long-term contracts for veterans. As insider Elliotte Friedman noted in his last 32 Thoughts Podcast of the season, Yzerman doesn’t want to give long-term deals to veteran players.
So, Rodrigues has two years left on his current deal. That term fits perfectly into Yzerman’s plan. He can keep Rodrigues in the fold without taking on a four or five-year commitment.
After this season, the Red Wings can look into extending Rodrigues or perhaps allow him to depart once his contract is up in 2027. The most important issue is that the Red Wings maintain flexibility as more of the team’s prospects graduate to the NHL.
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