Red Wings Rumblings
Happy Friday, friends. The Red Wings are back in action tonight — hosting the Chicago Blackhawks at LCA. Detroit will be looking for its SIXTH consecutive win. Pretty exciting stuff, huh? It’s clear that a lot has changed for this team since Todd McLellan took over as head coach. We’re getting some insight from HSJ’s latest column about how McLellan’s approach is starting to resonate with the younger players on this roster.
Being called into your manager’s office is always pretty nerve-wracking. That’s how it felt for Jonatan Berggren, until he sat down with McLellan:
”It’s always a little scary when the coach brings you in,” Berggren said. “So I was a little bit nervous, but it was a good meeting. He just wanted me to let loose a little bit and play my game. Don’t think about mistakes. He knows I’m an offensive player and he wants me to make plays, and don’t be afraid to make them. It was nice things to hear when you’re an offensive guy.”
It makes me really happy to read this kind of stuff from the players. It seems like a totally different approach than that of Derek Lalonde. Fostering an environment like this is a good way to get the best out of your people. Feels good to know that these younger players are in good developmental hands.
In other news, Ville Husso was summoned from Grand Rapids this week in wake of Alex Lyon’s injury. Nothing to be concerned about, sounds like — McLellan said he expects Lyon should return to practice soon.
Former Red Wing Daniel Sprong is having a tough time sticking with a team. Just a couple of months after acquiring him from Vancouver, Seattle put him on waivers. He has since cleared waivers and is bound for the AHL. I’m sure he’ll get another chance in the NHL eventually, but the guy needs to work on his game. If he’s not scoring, Sprong is of little use since his defensive game is so weak. Best of luck to him.
Down on the Farm
Couple of quick notes for Detroit’s goaltending prospects:
Carter Gylander was named ECHL goaltender of the week. The young netminder stopped 100 of 105 shots during a four-win stretch for the Toledo Walleye. He’s bound to see more time in the AHL soon, I would guess.
Last but certainly not least, Sebastian Cossa (and Austin Watson) will participate in the 2025 AHL All-Star Classic. Another feather in the cap for Detroit’s future starting goaltender. Big year for him so far between his performance with the Griffins, becoming an AHL All-Star, and of course achieving his first-career NHL win.
