The Detroit Red Wings are in the process of trading defenseman Brendan Smith to the New York Rangers for a 2018 second pick (originally Ottawa’s) and 2017 third round pick.
The 28-year old Smith was drafted 27th overall in the 1st round of the 2007 draft by the Red Wings. The pending free agent defenseman carries a $2.75 million cap hit.
Thoughts from the media …
Chris Johnston: “There were productive contract talks between DET and Brendan Smith on an extension, but it never came to pass. He’s a pending UFA.”
Steve Zipay: “If it’s 2nd and 3rd rounder for Smith, seems a little high. Guessing there was competition.”
Brennan Klak: “I like the Rangers picking up Brendan Smith, gives them some D depth and they don’t give up their 1st rounder (FINALLY!)”
AJ Haefele: “Rangers were a team interested in Fedor Tyutin. Watching them fill a need with Smith reinforces Avs may seriously be missing boat here”
Gregg Krupa: “So ken Holland was not foolin’ around when he said he would see what is out there. big pull for smith from NYR bargaining hard.”
Gregg Krupa: “do not think moving smith for quality was easy, despite the sellers’ market. there were other pieces out there.”
David Pagnotta: Was told that Smith rejected the Red Wings final contract offer. The Red Wings wouldn’t go any higher, so they decided to move him.
