Alex DeBrincat to the Detroit Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman and Ottawa Senators general manager Pierre Dorion have agreed to terms on a trade surrounding 40-goal scorer Alex DeBrincat. DeBrincat, who has two 40-goal seasons under his belt, is a prized possession that could contribute significantly to any franchise he plays on.

Trade Details & Grade

The trade is certainly ready to rile up some fans, though Dorion had his hands tied, and this is the best they possibly could’ve found on the market, especially with the cap situation at the moment.

To Detroit

Detroit received Alex DeBrincat’s signing rights via trade; they would then sign DeBrincat to a four-year deal worth $7.85 million annually. DeBrincat will make $8.25 million in annual salary until the 2026-27 season; the 2026-27 season will earn DeBrincat $6.75 million.

To Ottawa

The Ottawa Senators received Dominik Kubalik, Donovan Sebrango, a conditional 2024 first-round pick, and a 2024 fourth-round pick. The conditions on the 2024 first-round pick are as follows; Detroit can pick to keep either their 2024 first-round pick or Boston’s 2024 first-round pick. If Boston’s first-round pick is a top-10 pick, Boston will transfer Detroit their 2025 first-round pick instead, and Detroit will give Ottawa their 2024 first-round pick regardless of draft position.

First Impression Trade Grade

My first impression is knowing that Pierre Dorion had his hands tied in this situation; Dorion worked with the situation that he had and got a decent return. A first-round pick for the player you acquired via trade a year ago is crucial, and Dorion recouped said first-round pick, although it’s not a seventh-overall draft selection in return.

Detroit Trade Grade: B+
Ottawa Trade Grade: C+

Final Thoughts

If DeBrincat can get back to his 40-goal form, this will be an incredible trade for the Detroit Red Wings and Steve Yzerman; if not, DeBrincat is still a solid player to have in your top-six.

I should also note, DeBrincat and Kubalik were teammates and occasional linemates in Chicago up until DeBrincat’s trade to Ottawa. Now, Kubalik signed as a free agent in Detroit and is traded for his former teammate/linemate.

Overall, this trade benefits both teams; Ottawa can use that first-round pick to trade for another player or draft and develop a player in DeBrincat’s absence.