Signs Still Pointing to Simon Edvinsson Returning to Red Wings Says NHL Insider

Monday's headlines surrounding the Detroit Red Wings were mostly negative, with restricted free agent Simon Edvinsson reportedly preferring a trade out of Hockeytown, but there were some positive signs as well. 

TSN's Darren Dreger said on the radio show First Up that he has heard Edvinsson is still "very much open to the idea of staying in Detroit," though he noted that any deal would still need to be worthwhile for the young defenseman to sign. Dreger also explained that the Red Wings remain committed to bringing Edvinsson back.

Later Monday, TSN's Pierre LeBrun reported that Edvinsson did not receive his first contract offer until roughly September 17. That timeline suggests the Red Wings were radio silent with Edvinsson for nearly the entire offseason, and it helps explain why he would feel upset with an organization that did not appear to make his contract negotiation a priority.

Bookmark The Hockey News Detroit Red Wings team site to stay connected to the latest news, game-day coverage, and player features.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman added more detail on his 32 Thoughts podcast, saying Edvinsson was patient while waiting for a new deal but became "pretty mad," a reaction that is understandable given the circumstances. 

Friedman reported that the 23-year-old Swedish defenseman was upset enough to return to his home country and told the organization he "wants to be left alone for a bit." Like Dreger, Friedman said he believes the situation can still be fixed.

Edvinsson is coming off his sophomore season, in which he recorded 25 points in 72 games. It was a somewhat disappointing follow-up to his 31-point rookie breakout, as some had expected another step forward in year two. With his junior season now delayed, it is unclear how Edvinsson will look this season if he returns to the Red Wings lineup at all.

Never miss a story by adding us to your Google News favorites!

For action-packed issues, access to the entire magazine archive and a free issue, subscribe to The Hockey News at THN.com/free. Get the latest news and trending stories by subscribing to our newsletter here. And share your thoughts by commenting below the article on THN.com or creating your own post in our community forum.