Detroit Red Wings have reportedly reached out to the Vegas Golden Knights on defenceman Nic Hague

The Red Wings are notably weak on the blueline with it being one of their main priorities heading into the off-season. It already sounds like they are getting to work as they've been involved in the recent rumors around Vegas Golden Knights defenceman Nic Hague. 

There’s growing chatter online about Hague potentially being on the move, and one team being floated in connection is Detroit.

Tony Wolak (@TonyWolak) on XRed Wings reportedly interested in trading for LD Nic Hague. He’s one of my top targets for top-four D this offseason. #LGRW

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. 

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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.

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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.

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