The NHL's trade deadline is less than a week away, and the market is heating up for one of the Red Wings' top assets.
Defenseman Nick Jensen is drawing increasing interest, according to Brian Lawton, with offers on the table of a third-round pick. But Red Wings GM Ken Holland appears to be holding out for more, setting the asking price at a second-round pick.
If Holland doesn't get what he's seeking, he'd just as soon extend those players before they hit free agency, with an eye toward competing next season. He's believed to be asking for a first-round pick for Howard and Nyquist.
Jensen is in the midst of a breakout season at age 28. He's already tied his career high in points (15) through 59 games, and he possesses the skating ability to provide a boost to just about any contender.
He's also a great value, carrying a cap hit of just $812,500.
Other Red Wings that figure to draw interest ahead of the trade deadline include Thomas Vanek, Mike Green and Luke Glendening.