Things are going very well for the Detroit Red Wings so far this season. They currently sit atop the Atlantic Division standings with a 31-16-5 record and 67 points, and they have shown no signs of slowing down, winning seven of their last 10 games. With this strong performance, Detroit has a legitimate chance to snap its nine-year playoff drought.
To maximize their postseason odds, the Red Wings could look to improve their roster before the 2026 NHL trade deadline. One area that stands out is the blue line, where additional depth could prove invaluable during a playoff run. Among the players generating trade chatter is Winnipeg Jets defenseman Logan Stanley.
The Jets are struggling this season, evidenced by their 20-23-7 record. That situation, combined with Stanley’s pending unrestricted free-agent status and his strong performance this year, makes him a logical trade candidate. At 6-foot-7, Stanley provides a rare combination of size, physicality, and offensive upside, making him a player the Red Wings should monitor closely.
A potential deal could see Detroit acquiring Stanley in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick. NHL insider Chris Johnston included Stanley at No. 22 on his latest trade board for The Athletic, noting that the Jets may soon face a decision about whether to offer him a substantial contract this summer or move him before his UFA status comes into play. Johnston wrote, “Unafraid to drop his gloves to defend teammates, and with a reach that’s basically unmatched across the league, Stanley is in position to cash in this summer with a contract that could be worth $25 million or more. That leaves the Jets with a decision to make: Do they want to be the team offering that deal, or is it time to cash in on their investment by putting him on the trade market?”
If the Jets decide to sell, Detroit would be wise to pursue Stanley. He would provide a significant boost to the Red Wings’ bottom pairing, offering both size and skill. Stanley has 8 goals and 16 points in 49 games this season, along with 79 hits and 95 penalty minutes, highlighting his physical presence and ability to contribute offensively from the point.
Adding Stanley would give Detroit’s blue line an added dimension, balancing toughness with offensive potential and helping the Red Wings solidify their roster for the postseason. With the trade deadline approaching, it will be intriguing to see whether Stanley becomes part of Detroit’s push to return to playoff contention.
