Detroit Red Wings have reportedly reached out to the Vegas Golden Knights on defenceman Nic Hague
The Red Wings enter the offseason with a clear need to strengthen their blueline, widely seen as one of the team's biggest weaknesses.
Early signs suggest the front office is already addressing it, with Detroit reportedly involved in trade discussions surrounding Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Nic Hague.
It was first reported by the Fourth Period, that Vegas was speaking to several teams on Hague but The Hockey Writers' Tony Wolak added that the Red Wings were one of the teams involved. While nothing official has been confirmed, the idea has some practical weight.
Vegas is in a very cap-tight situation with just under $10 million in space and a few contracts still left to be sorted out. Hague is a restricted free agent could be due a significant raise that the Golden Knights may not be able to afford. Insiders believe he is expecting around $3 million annually if not more on a multi-year deal.
With Vegas prioritizing other pieces and known for making bold cap-clearing moves, Hague becomes one of the most likely candidates to be moved.
For Detroit, Hague presents an intriguing fit. He’s a 6’6” left-shot defenseman who plays a physical, defensively sound game and brings the exact type of presence that could complement the Red Wings' existing blue line structure.
Moritz Seider remains their franchise cornerstone, while Simon Edvinsson is expected to take on a step forward next season. But beyond those two, the team lacks reliable defencemen, especially on the left side.
Hague’s shot-blocking, penalty-killing, and willingness to play heavy minutes would be a welcome boost for a Red Wings team that has lacked some grit in recent years.
The Red Wings also have the cap space and asset flexibility to make a deal with over $21 million available and a stockpile of picks. GM Steve Yzerman could justify using some of that capital to bring in a 25-year-old defenseman who fits both their timeline, identity and won't come at a heavy price tag.
Hague’s age and experience of over 250 NHL games and a Stanley Cup ring could give him the kind of resume that could stabilize a up-and-coming young team like the Red Wings looking to take the next step toward playoff contention.
There are still questions to consider. If Vegas demands a high-end prospect or premium pick, Detroit might hesitate, especially with their rebuild still in a delicate balance.
But if the price is manageable, Hague could be exactly the kind of addition that signals Detroit is ready to start contending for a playoff spot.
