Detroit still says Simon Edvinsson is a priority to sign. The complication: a report from Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman says the unsigned defenseman now prefers a trade after contract talks stalled. That shifts the story from a quiet restricted-free-agent negotiation to a test of whether the Red Wings can repair the relationship—or find a return that makes moving a young top-four defenseman worthwhile.
There is an important gap between Edvinsson’s reported preference and a deal gaining traction. Detroit interim GM Shawn Horcoff has said the club is working with the player’s representatives and wants to keep him, while declining to discuss the negotiating details. Reports also say Detroit has explored longer-term contract offers and checked the trade market. None of that confirms an offer, a destination, or an agreement to move him.
Edvinsson’s leverage is unusual: he remains unsigned, and the regular season has begun without him. The 2021 sixth-overall pick recorded 25 points in 72 games last season, a résumé that makes a trade costly—and a long-term contract a significant commitment. Any acquiring club would need to value both the player and the contract it expects to sign him to.
For now, Detroit’s public stance and Edvinsson’s reported preference point in opposite directions. That makes this a developing situation, not a trade watch with a confirmed buyer. If the sides cannot close the contract gap, the next meaningful signal may be whether another team moves from checking in to putting a credible package on the table.