NHL Trade Rumors: Red Wings, Capitals Talk About Defenseman Mike Green; Caps' Holding Onto Two-Time All-Star? [VIDEO]

The Detroit Red Wings have reached out to the Washington Capitals concerning the availability of two-time All-Star defenseman Mike Green.

According to a team source, the Red Wings have decided that Green should be their top trade target despite the Capitals saying that Green will not be traded. Washington’s salary cap situation makes it tough for the team to hold onto the eight defensemen they currently have on the roster and moving Green will open up $6 million in cap space.

The Capitals have $17 million committed to Green and free agent additions Matt Niskanen and Brooks Orpik, meaning something has to give. Green is the ideal choice for the Red Wings due to what he brings on offense as well as his incredible skating ability. Green is also one of the best commanders of the power play in the NHL and 51 of his 103 career goals have come on the power play.

The Red Wings have to move fast as Green has a modified trade clause and it is believed his value will increase as time goes on. Detroit’s initial offer could be the make or break of any trade involving Green if the Capitals wish to see how valuable Green can become as the season approaches.

In 70 games last season, Green averaged 23 minutes on ice while scoring nine goals and 29 assists for the Capitals.

Fun fact about Mike Green: he was drafted with the Red Wings draft pick sent to Washington as part of the Robert Lang deal.

— The Production Line (@TPLhockey) July 9, 2014