Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Red Wings made strategic moves ahead of the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline, acquiring forward Craig Smith and goalie Petr Mrazek from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Joe Veleno. The team also secured a fourth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft as part of a three-team trade involving the Seattle Kraken and Tampa Bay Lightning.

Steve Yzerman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Red Wings, emphasized that while they didn't achieve everything they aimed for, their focus remained on maintaining future assets. "I wouldn't say we did everything we wanted to do," Yzerman stated. He highlighted their intention to remain competitive for playoff spots without sacrificing future prospects.

Craig Smith brings experience with nine goals and seven assists this season, while Petr Mrazek returns to Detroit with a record of 10-19-2 from his time with Chicago. Yzerman noted, "Acquiring Craig is a different player than Joe," adding that Mrazek's return offers stability given current goaltender market conditions.

Yzerman addressed the impact of Andrew Copp's season-ending injury on their plans but admitted options were limited due to market constraints. Despite these challenges, he expressed satisfaction with Todd McLellan's leadership since taking over as head coach on December 26th.

The Red Wings are positioned just one point shy of an Eastern Conference Wild-Card spot with 20 games remaining. "It's going to be an incredibly exciting playoff run where we're looking at it," said Yzerman.

Regardless of this season’s outcome, Yzerman remains committed to rebuilding the team into a sustainable winner. "I want to make the playoffs. I want to win a Stanley Cup as much as anybody in this city," he affirmed.