Are you rooting for former Wings Players in the playoffs? There’s an interesting back and forth regarding Mantha. Yes, some of you want him to do well, but an early exit from the playoffs would mean a higher draft pick. Tatar is a player I really liked when he was here, I’d love to see him skate the cup one day.
Team Sweden released its roster for the World Championship, and Detroit defensive prospect Albert Johansson will be a part of the team. Johansson was a second round pick in Yzerman’s first draft as GM (2019) at 60th overall. He has signed his ELC, and will be worth the watch at the upcoming world’s. We’ve talked a bit about the lack of left shot D prospects ready to make the jump to the NHL. It would be nice to see Johansson make the move to North America.
Johansson played for farjestad this past season. He notched 8 goals and 11 assists while averaging 17:29 TOI. That’s 5 minutes more than he averaged in the previous season. Watching his 20/21 highlight reel (above) the kid can skate. He seems to pick up a lot of speed in the neutral zone and can lead the rush. His edge work is fantastic, and he can quickly change his shot to throw the goalie off. His backhand is fairly impressive as well.
It looks like he’ll need to be paired with someone who is stronger defensively. Although, he will be able to use his speed if he’s caught deep in the O zone and the play goes the other way. He’s not nearly as physical as Seider, so that may be a good pairing in the future. His best shots seem to be wrist shots/snap shots. He has a decent slap shot from the point, but his ability to change/mask the angle on those other shots is stronger.
Decent size at 6’1”, here are some of the scouting quotes that Elite Prospects posted:
A mobile, modern defenseman with good puckhandling skills. Has most tools you want in a defenseman., Thomas Rhodin (GM) 2020
He sees the ice well, has a high panic threshold and can adjust his style of play to what is needed., McKeen's Hockey 2019
He’s a very good skater with fluid strides. He has quick first steps and is adept at handling the puck as he accelerates to top speed, Future Considerations 2019
Has a hard shot from the blueline and he is not afraid to shoot the puck, Hockeyprospect.com 2019
It’s a long road to the NHL, but having this prospect under contract is a good sign that Yzerman sees something in the way of potential. We’ll see what next year brings, but keep your eyes out for this blue liner. If McIsaac can stay healthy we may well get some good looks at our young left side Dmen next season. Let me know what you think of this defensive prospect, I’ll see you in the comments.
Detroit Red Wings Blogger • 
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