Now that we are past the trade deadline, rosters across the NHL are pretty much set in stone. There will be no more tearful goodbyes, and talk of adding draft picks and prospects will now have to wait until the end of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, that doesn’t mean that teams don’t have the opportunity to incorporate fresh faces into their lineup before the end of the season.
Related: 4 Red Wings to Keep an Eye on Post Trade Deadline
Like many other teams, the Detroit Red Wings have a solid collection of talent marinating down in the American Hockey League (AHL). Their AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, are still trying to scratch and claw their way into a playoff spot in what has been a disappointing season. Despite their struggles as a team, there have been a number of individuals that have fared well this season and have made a good case for themselves to see some NHL action before the season concludes.
With a month left to go in the NHL season, here are three Griffins that the Red Wings may want to call up.
(D) Simon Edvinsson
Of course, right?
Simon Edvinsson, the Red Wings’ top pick in the 2021 draft, is nearing the end of his first season in North America. The Swedish defenseman was one of the last cuts from the Red Wings’ roster prior to the season, and most expect that he will start the 2023-24 season in Detroit. What better way to give him a running start heading into next season than to give him a taste of what awaits him at the NHL level.
As has been the case since before his draft season, Edvinsson’s game is one that is highlighted by his blend of size and skill. The 6-foot-6 defender uses his long reach to corral the puck in transition, as well as to disrupt shooting and passing lanes on defense. While he can sometimes be over-reliant on his size advantage, it is not a bad thing that he already recognizes that his size gives him an advantage over other players. If the Red Wings did call him up, he would instantly become the biggest player on their blue line. As for his skill level, he stands out at the AHL level as a defender that can really take charge from the back end. He looks to make things happen almost every shift, and while his risk-taking has sometimes been an issue this season, he’s the type of defender that thrives when he is free to take risks in the name of creating offensive opportunities.
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