That Gusev trade would be great for Detroit if it happened, but unless you think the Red Wings are just a Brayden Point away from being a contender, I have no earthly idea why you would trade Athanasiou (quality player) and Zadina to a division rival. Luckily, Stevie Y is smarter than that and won't do this.

The problem with Gusev is no one has any idea if he can play in the NHL, as he's never played on the smaller ice surface, or in North America. Is he another Shipachyov, that looks good in the KHL, but the game doesn't translate? For every Kuch, there are many more Shipachyovs.

By trading Zadina and AA, you are definitely cutting out the depth of the club. This was already a 1.5 line team, and it still is even with Point (as each C will play with an unproven player). DET would be better off getting Zadina in the lineup, playing AA (at either W or C), and finding another 2C (Veleno? or a FA?).

If the trade proposed was what it took then I think that would be worth it to find out. Bowey is nearly on the outside looking in as it is. That said, I don't think Vegas would make that trade. Lindstrom + Wings' 2020 2nd would do it I'm sure though.

I do not think that's going to happen too, but it's just a game of thought.