Austin Konenski
The Detroit Red Wings are looking to make big moves during the 2026 NHL offseason that bring them back to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. As of 2026, the Red Wings have the NHL’s longest playoff drought, so Detroit must make the playoffs next season. In fact, one NHL insider has labeled one of the NHL’s best free agents as a potential fit in Detroit.
The Athletic’s Max Bultman labeled Seattle Kraken forward Bobby McMann as the free agent whom Detroit should sign this offseason. McMann, who was traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Kraken at the NHL trade deadline, scored 29 goals and 46 points between both organizations in 78 games.
The 29-year-old forward would bring much-needed five-on-five offense to Detroit on a likely big payday. However, who else did Bultman suggest for the Red Wings?
Other potential NHL free agent targets for the Detroit Red Wings
While McMann was the top pick, Bultman also suggested other players, including Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch. The 30-year-old forward might be the top NHL free agent on the market, but would Buffalo really let him walk? Tuch has scored 30-plus goals in three of the last four seasons.
Meanwhile, Columbus Blue Jackets forward Mason Marchment was another option. Marchment doesn’t produce as much offense as Tuch or McMann, but he could be a cheaper option. However, if Detroit wants to add one of the top free agents, it has to go big or go home.
This leads us to Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin. The Pittsburgh legend is nearing the end of his career, but he grew up a Red Wings fan. Malkin can still score nearly 20 goals per season, and there is a possibility that he takes a hometown discount to root for his favorite team growing up.
At the end of the day, McMann appears to be one of the top options for Detroit, alongside Tuch. The latter would be a bigger pickup; however, there is doubt that he will reach the market. In this case, McMann appears to be one of the top options left.
Either way, the Red Wings need to make a big move this offseason to make the 2027 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
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