Detroit — On the ice, Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider have become one of the NHL’s most captivating young duos. Off the ice, their bond has become equally compelling — and increasingly under the spotlight.

In a recent exclusive interview with NHL Insider Report, Lucas Raymond finally addressed ongoing questions about his close relationship with teammate Moritz “Mo” Seider. Their chemistry is undeniable — both in playmaking and personality — but fans and even insiders have started asking a different question: is there more to their connection than just friendship?

“We’ve always just had this natural connection,” Raymond said with a slight smile. “From the moment I got to Detroit, Mo was like family. He’s always had my back — on and off the ice.”

That closeness hasn’t gone unnoticed by Red Wings fans. The two are frequently seen arriving together at practices, vacationing during the off-season, and sharing inside jokes during media sessions. Their banter is light, but their loyalty seems deep.

On social media, hashtags like #Rayder (Raymond + Seider) have trended multiple times — especially after an Instagram post last month showing the two on a private boat trip in Sweden, arms over shoulders, with the caption “My favorite place with my favorite person.”

While the post sparked thousands of likes and adoring comments, it also reignited public speculation that the two may share a romantic relationship, rather than just a “best friend” bond. Raymond was quick to neither confirm nor deny the rumors.

“People can think what they want,” he said with a pause. “Mo and I know what we have — and it’s something real. That’s all that matters.”

Team Chemistry or Something Deeper?

Head coach Derek Lalonde has often praised the Raymond-Seider connection as a key pillar in the Red Wings’ team culture.

“They just click,” Lalonde noted. “Whether it’s a defensive switch, a power play setup, or motivating each other in the locker room — it’s seamless. They bring out the best in each other.”

But as speculation grows, some teammates have admitted that the pair’s bond is unlike any other in the locker room.

“You don’t see that kind of closeness every day,” said veteran Dylan Larkin. “They’re basically inseparable. They read each other’s minds.”

When asked if the attention bothers him, Raymond stayed diplomatic.

“It’s funny how people always want to label something. For me and Mo, we’re just enjoying this journey. Hockey’s hard enough — it’s good to have someone who really gets you.”

Private Lives in the Public Eye

Both Raymond and Seider have been intensely private about their dating lives. Neither has been publicly linked with partners in recent years, and both have largely dodged personal questions from reporters. Still, the rumors haven’t slowed.

Red Wings fans remain divided. While many embrace the idea of the two players being more than friends, others argue it’s unfair to speculate without clear confirmation. LGBTQ+ advocates have praised the pair for potentially breaking silent barriers in pro sports, whether or not the speculation proves accurate.

“Even if they’re just friends, the fact that they’re so open and affectionate is powerful in a sport that doesn’t always encourage emotional vulnerability,” said activist Trevor Dean of Athletes for Equality.

The Bigger Picture

As the Red Wings push toward the playoffs, the focus returns to performance. But one thing’s certain — the Raymond-Seider bond will continue to draw eyes, whether for its on-ice brilliance or its off-ice mystery.

Raymond ended the interview with a knowing grin:

“Mo’s my person. That’s all I’ll say.”

For now, that’s enough — but the hockey world will surely keep watching.