Detroit, MI, January 23, 2026
The Detroit Red Wings are exploring a trade that would send defenseman Mattias Ekholm to the Nashville Predators in exchange for goaltender prospect Sebastian Cossa. This potential move aims to enhance the Red Wings’ defensive lineup while providing the Predators with a promising young goaltender for future development. The trade involves both teams’ management’s approval and reflects a strategic direction for both franchises as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Detroit Red Wings Consider Trade Involving Mattias Ekholm and Sebastian Cossa
Detroit, MI – The Detroit Red Wings are reportedly evaluating a potential trade that would send defenseman Mattias Ekholm to the Nashville Predators in exchange for goaltender prospect Sebastian Cossa. This move aims to bolster the Red Wings’ defensive lineup while providing the Predators with a promising young goaltender for future development.
Trade Details
The proposed trade involves the following components:
- To Nashville Predators: Mattias Ekholm
- To Detroit Red Wings: Sebastian Cossa
This transaction is contingent upon approval from both teams’ management and compliance with NHL trade regulations.
Player Profiles
Mattias Ekholm is a seasoned defenseman known for his strong defensive play and leadership qualities. Over his career, he has accumulated significant NHL experience, contributing to his team’s defensive stability.
Sebastian Cossa, drafted 15th overall by the Red Wings in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, has been developing with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League (AHL). In December 2025, he earned Goaltender of the Month honors for the second consecutive month, showcasing his potential as a future NHL goaltender.
Implications for the Red Wings
Acquiring Ekholm would address the Red Wings’ need for an experienced defenseman to strengthen their blue line. This move aligns with the team’s strategy to enhance their defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
Implications for the Predators
For the Predators, obtaining Cossa represents an investment in a promising young goaltender, potentially securing their goaltending position for years to come. This trade reflects a strategic focus on long-term player development.
Background Context
The Red Wings have been active in the trade market, seeking to improve their roster for the 2025-26 season. In June 2025, they acquired goaltender John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks, aiming to solidify their goaltending situation. The addition of Ekholm would further enhance their defensive lineup, complementing their existing roster changes.
Similarly, the Predators have been focusing on player development, with the addition of Cossa potentially serving as a cornerstone for their future goaltending needs.
Conclusion
The proposed trade between the Detroit Red Wings and the Nashville Predators involving Mattias Ekholm and Sebastian Cossa signifies strategic moves by both teams to address specific roster needs. While the trade is still under consideration, it highlights the dynamic nature of NHL team management and the ongoing efforts to build competitive teams for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the proposed trade between the Detroit Red Wings and the Nashville Predators?
The proposed trade involves sending defenseman Mattias Ekholm from the Detroit Red Wings to the Nashville Predators in exchange for goaltender prospect Sebastian Cossa. This move aims to strengthen the Red Wings’ defense while providing the Predators with a promising young goaltender for future development.
Who is Mattias Ekholm?
Mattias Ekholm is a seasoned defenseman known for his strong defensive play and leadership qualities. Over his career, he has accumulated significant NHL experience, contributing to his team’s defensive stability.
Who is Sebastian Cossa?
Sebastian Cossa is a goaltender prospect drafted 15th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He has been developing with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League (AHL) and earned Goaltender of the Month honors for December 2025, marking his second consecutive month receiving this award.
What are the implications of this trade for the Detroit Red Wings?
Acquiring Mattias Ekholm would address the Red Wings’ need for an experienced defenseman to strengthen their blue line. This move aligns with the team’s strategy to enhance their defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
What are the implications of this trade for the Nashville Predators?
For the Predators, obtaining Sebastian Cossa represents an investment in a promising young goaltender, potentially securing their goaltending position for years to come. This trade reflects a strategic focus on long-term player development.
What is the background context of this proposed trade?
The Red Wings have been active in the trade market, seeking to improve their roster for the 2025-26 season. In June 2025, they acquired goaltender John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks, aiming to solidify their goaltending situation. The addition of Ekholm would further enhance their defensive lineup, complementing their existing roster changes. Similarly, the Predators have been focusing on player development, with the addition of Cossa potentially serving as a cornerstone for their future goaltending needs.
Key Features of the Proposed Trade
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams Involved | Detroit Red Wings and Nashville Predators |
| Players Exchanged | Mattias Ekholm (to Predators) and Sebastian Cossa (to Red Wings) |
| Trade Objective | Strengthen Red Wings’ defense and provide Predators with a promising young goaltender |
| Trade Status | Under consideration, pending approval from both teams’ management |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
