Hypothetical trade with Chicago Blackhawks could bring the missing piece for the Detroit Red Wings defense

The proposal, generated by a user on PuckPedia's PuckGM tool, suggests the following trade:

Red Wings acquire:
- Seth Jones

Blackhawks acquire:
- J.T. Compher
- Justin Holl
- 2025 third-round pick (Boston's)

This hypothetical trade would be a blockbuster, giving Detroit a top-four defenseman in Jones, though he is currently viewed as underperforming relative to his massive eight-year, $76 million contract. Jones, entering the third year of this deal, registered 31 points in 67 games last season for the Blackhawks. While he has struggled to live up to his contract, he remains a solid NHL defenseman who could slot into Detroit's first or second pairing.

This trade would allow Chicago to offload Jones' large contract and acquire forward J.T. Compher and defenseman Justin Holl. Coming off a 48-point season, Compher could serve as a bottom-six forward for Chicago, while Holl, who struggled to stay in Detroit's lineup last season, has two years remaining on his three-year, $10.2 million deal. The added 2025 third-round pick from Boston would help Chicago's rebuilding efforts.

Detroit's GM, Steve Yzerman, has emphasized the team's need to improve defensively. During the offseason, the Red Wings bolstered their roster with key additions such as Vladimir Tarasenko, goalie Cam Talbot, and defenseman Erik Gustafsson. Yzerman believes the team has improved but stressed that defensive performance is crucial if Detroit wants to make the playoffs. After finishing last season with a record of 41-32-9, the Red Wings just missed out on a playoff spot, continuing a drought dating back to the 2015-16 season.

This trade would improve Detroit's defensive depth, but it also comes with risks, particularly Jones' hefty contract.

As seen on Heavy.com
Trade Pitch Has Red Wings Adding Star $76 Million Defenseman in Blockbuster