In Red Wings Land

Speedy Berggren hopes to become another Red Wings draft gem | Detroit News

But despite the good offensive numbers and physical skills, teams passed on Berggren during the first-round of the NHL Draft.

“It was a little disappointing not to be picked (in the first round),” Berggren said. “I was sad. I had a good season. So to be picked by Detroit, it was amazing.”

I was originally a bit disappointed when Ken Holland & co made this pick in June. After a great round one, I wanted a defenseman with this pick (specifically Bode Wilde). Of course, the more I read about Jonatan Berggren, the more I like the selection. Here’s another kid — along with Filip Zadina and Joe Veleno — that has a chip on his shoulder because of where he fell in the draft. The Wings now have a real solid group of hungry and talented kids that will help turn around the franchise in a few years.

Around the League

NHL increasingly reliant on young defensemen* | TSN

*except the Red Wings