Red Wings Have Big Surprises On Roster

Red Wings prospects stun in preseason

The Red Wings have three shocking, albeit welcome, additions to their roster. The 23 man roster has been submitted, and heads are being turned. Emmitt Finnie, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard and Axel Sandin-Pellikka have made the team. 

All three players took advantage of strong camps, as well as a grueling pre season. The team made it clear that spots would be earned, and they clearly meant it. The end result saw two veteran defensemen enter, and clear waivers to make room for the kids. 

Axel Sandin-Pellikka has been outstanding

In particular, Sandin-Pellikka has stood out during the preseason trials. It is difficult for young prospects to make the team, but even more so for defenseman. ASPs exponential growth saw Justin Holl and Erik Gustafsson both be exposed to waivers. 

ASP has already shown excellent vision on ice, as well as elusive puck handling skills. The future is bright for the 2023 first round pick, even more so with this early opportunity. ASP could well see time on ice with Simon Edvinsson, another first round defenseman selected by Steve Yzerman. 

Has the “Yzerplan” turned a corner?

The hallmark of Yzerman’s vision for the team has been to build through the NHL draft. 11 of the 23 players on this roster are Detroit draft picks, and eight of those have been under Steve Yzerman’s tenure. The team is getting younger, and the future is looking brighter. 

Fans have grown impatient with the rebuild, but perhaps these developments will buy some good will for the team. Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond are already clear leaders on the team. Marco Kasper has also become a key part of the rebuild. There is a long season ahead, but it looks like the youth will be key to this year’s success.