This transaction hinted at imminent moves, possibly another trade or a UFA signing. Recent rumours have linked Detroit to defenseman Jakob Chychrun from the Senators and forward Jake Guentzel, a pending UFA who had a good season with 77 points split between Pittsburgh and Carolina. Chychrun, with a year left on his contract, could strengthen Detroit's top defensive pair alongside Moritz Seider.
The decision to trade Walman might signal a strategic move to clear cap space for acquiring a player like Guentzel or to fortify the defence with Chychrun. These potential moves reflect Detroit's ambitions to upgrade their defensive core and offensive firepower. Until these deals materialize, the rationale behind the Walman trade remains speculative but indicative of Detroit's proactive approach in shaping their roster for the upcoming season.
