We’ve got a trade on day two!
Steve Yzerman struck a deal with former Wings GM Ken Holland for forwards Kailer Yamamoto and Klim Kostin.. And it basically cost him nothing:
UPDATE: The #RedWings today have acquired F Klim Kostin and F Kailer Yamamoto form the Edmonton Oilers in exchange for future considerations. pic.twitter.com/qiNleqsASi
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) June 29, 2023
Both Kostin and Yamamoto were 1st-round selections in the 2017 NHL Draft. Kostin is a power-winger at six-foot-four, 212-pounds. He suited up in 57 games for Edmonton last season, putting up 21 points (11-10–21). “He Can carry defenders around the ice with his power and balance, or stickhandle around them with a deke or two as he goes to the net” –Future Considerations report from 2017.
Yamamoto is a small-frame winger-center who has a 20-goal season under his belt. The Washington native has been touted for his offensive creativity and elusive abilities. Yamamoto, 24, put up 25 points (10-15–25) in 58 games last season.
Neither of these players are Alex Debrincat, but the fact that Yzerman was able to swindle Holland and get them for next-to-nothing is a big win. The trade was likely due to Edmonton’s cap situation. According to CapFriendly, Yamamoto has one more year on his current contract ($3.1 million AAV) and will be RFA after next season. Kostin is currently an unsigned RFA. It will be intriguing to see how both of them fit into the big picture.
How we feeling about this trade, gang?
