It’s been a few seasons of rebuilding, retooling and finishing off contracts left behind by Ken Holland. The fact is, the Wings had a magical run of twenty five straight seasons in the playoffs. This record may hold forever, that’s how impressive it really is. The Red Wings were destined to fall off the map at some point, and Holland did his best to continue the streak as long as he could, even if it depleted their picks and prospects in doing so.

Now that Steve Yzerman has taken over as the General Manager, the Wings can focus on the future of the organization and building yet another competitive red and white contender year in, year out. Who better to lead the charge than Stevie Y? Well, Yzerman added one of the greatest defensemen in Red Wings history Nicklas Lidstrom as the Vice President of hockey operations. This is a great add for Detroit, not only do Yzerman and Lidstrom have brilliant hockey minds, but they have chemistry and a vision of what it takes to build a championship team in this era of hockey. Now it’s time for the duo to bring the magic touch on the ice and add the right players through the draft and any other avenues to better the team.

Who has impressed you more at this point of the season, Lucas Raymond or Moritz Seider?

As of now the Wings have some decent prospects in the system and I’m expecting one if not two of these players to make the leap next season. Jonatan Berggren has the best shot to make the team next season, he’s been playing for Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL) and has adjusted well to hockey in North America. After a full season in the AHL, Berggren should be ready to impress at camp next season and make the jump to the NHL. After thirty games on the Griffins, he’s produced twenty seven points which is quality output for the young Sweden native who’s really beginning to heat up as the season goes.

Now all Red Wings fans will know the name Simon Edvinsson, as he was just drafted in 2021. The number six pick has been playing in Sweden all season, increasing his output and playing big minutes in important roles. After twenty six games he’s tacked on twelve points, but has really stepped up his game in doing so. It’s one thing to get more points, but while elevating your play is what’s most impressive. Edvinsson is only eighteen years old, he’s got a lot to learn but has continued to improve his play. The World Junior tournament was cut short, but after just two games the Swede had a goal and a pair of assists and was looking solid on the back end. Will Simon make the Wings or will he go the slow and steady route that Yzerman usually goes with his young prospects? If he’s ready, I think Stevie will give him a taste out the gates and see how he’s playing. We know he’s open to letting the kids play if they are ready, just ask Lucas Raymond.

Another quality defensemen in the works is left handed Albert Johansson. Drafted back in 2019 in the second round, Johansson has been playing over seas in Sweden (seems to be a theme here). He’s ripened and is now ready to show what he’s got, expect Johansson to make a splash onto either the Griffins or Wings next season. Odds are one of Edvinsson or Johansson get a sniff, so next years training camp and pre season will be important for both of these players, although Edvinsson has plenty of time left to develop.

The Wings will have the luxury of being patient with their prospects as it’s not likely that they make the playoffs for another couple of seasons. It’s not that they aren’t improving, because they are, it’s just that there is a lot of competition in the Eastern Conference, especially the Atlantic Division.

Hopefully you enjoyed this Red Wings taster! (now I'm craving wings)

Thanks for reading, have a great day.

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