Danielson Sent Down and Yzerman's Potential Trade Targets - Jan. 7th, 2026

This Detroit Red Wings podcast recaps Monday's 4-2 win over Ottawa, a game Detroit stole despite being outplayed. Also, Detroit Red Wings news and analysis on Nate Danielson's assignment to Grand Rapids, plus early NHL trade deadline rumblings.

The Red Wings escaped Ottawa with two crucial Atlantic Division points thanks to John Gibson's stellar 34-save performance and opportunistic scoring from Andrew Copp, Dylan Larkin, James van Riemsdyk, and Lucas Raymond's sick goal. While Detroit looked disjointed with their new line combinations, they capitalized when it mattered most against Ottawa's struggling goaltending. Gibson continues proving he can steal games even when the team doesn't play well in front of him, answering questions about his ability to perform under pressure. Copp's breakaway goal showcased his remarkable turnaround from early season struggles, while JVR continued to excel, his veteran presence in front of the net set up Larkin's 22nd goal of the season on a beautiful power play sequence.

RED WINGS BEAT SENATORS (4:45)
Detroit wins ugly but wins nonetheless, outshot 37-21 but getting stellar goaltending from John Gibson and timely scoring.

LINEUP CHANGES (13:55)
New line combinations looked disjointed but Todd McLellan's roster shakeup continues taking shape.

DANIELSON TO GRAND RAPIDS (21:45)
Nate Danielson heads back to the Griffins while John Leonard remains with the big club.

TRADE RUMORS DISCUSSION (26:20)
Early deadline rumblings around the league and potential fits for Steve Yzerman's roster as trade season heats up - is Rasmus Andersson a fit to help Sandin-Pellikka on the right?

WORLD JUNIORS RECAP (44:55)
Updates on Red Wings prospects competing at the tournament, with Eddie Genborg winning gold with Sweden.

GRIFFINS AND OLYMPICS NEWS (50:40)
Grand Rapids updates as Shai Buium returns to action plus Tralmaks Olympic roster news.

OVERTIME (52:15)
Listener questions and mailbag segment wrapping up the episode.

WWP Night with Grand Rapids Griffins tickets (signed puck included): https://griffinshockey.com/wwp

This episode is brought to you by Hims. Visit hims.com/wingedwheel for your personalized hair loss treatment options.

Support the show: Patreon.com/WingedWheelPodcast

Head over to wingedwheelpodcast.com to find all the ways to listen, how to support the show, and so much more!