TRADE RUMOR: Could the Wings really be interested in acquiring superstar captain?

The fire sale in Toronto is definitely on the way. Although the Leafs probably plan on trading away most of their roster by next summer, there are two big names that will draw a lot of interest. Phil Kessel being one, and Dion Phaneuf being the other. Well it appears the Detroit Red Wings may have some interest in the latter. According to Sportsnet’s Damien Cox and Elliotte Friedman, the Los Angeles Kings have already expressed interest in the Leafs captain and the defence-needy Detroit Red Wings could show some interest as well. It is believed that the Wings have inquired about fellow Leaf Cody Franson, but are unwilling to pay the asking price. It is believed that the Leafs will ask for a first round pick for Franson, and for the Wings that would mean either Anthony Mantha or Dylan Larkin. Detroit has made it very clear they are unwilling to part ways with either of these picks. Should the Red Wings ultimately decide to pursue Phaneuf, who signed a seven-year contract extension worth $49 million last season, they would have to make a deal for current pieces. Phaneuf, 29, has two goals, 20 assists, and 85 penalty minutes in 48 games this season. He receives a lot of criticism in Toronto, but one must keep in mind that he plays against every team's top line nightly. Is the idea of having Phaneuf in the Red and White enticing?