The Detroit Red Wings are back! Steve Yzerman and his Red Wings team look to continue their success in the hopes of clinching their first playoff spot since the 2015-16 season. The "Yzer plan" is in full effect as according to Steven Ellis of The Daily Faceoff, the Red Wings hold the seventh-best prospect pool in the entire NHL. Here is an analysis of the top Red Wings' prospects so far this season:
Sebastian Cossa
The transition from junior to pro was not too kind to young netminder Sebastian Cossa last season. The former 15th overall selection made his professional debut in the American Hockey League with Grand Rapids last season. And boy did it not go as planned! Cossa suited up for three games last season posting a horrendous 5.57 GAA and a .783 save percentage before being optioned to the ECHL. Cossa at times looked out of place and shocked by the professional speed.
But so far this season, Cossa has shown a massive difference in his development. Cossa is back with the Grand Rapids Griffins and showcases a much calmer more relaxed demeanor in the net. So far this season, Cossa looks sharp, utilizing his greatest components: his size and positioning in the crease. The former WHL All-Star has had a solid DY+3 season posting a much improved 3.03 GAA and a .902 save percentage.
Theodor Niederbach
Niederbach, a former second-round pick by the Wings back in 2020 remains unsigned by the team and is currently playing for MoDo Hockey of the SHL. Niederbach is an interesting player within the Red Wings' system, the once junior superstar has yet to find his grove, in the SHL playing against tougher, older competition.
So far this season, it is safe to say that Niederbach has struggled to start his 2023-24 campaign. The forward has suited up for 24 games scoring just five points while playing a top-six role on a poor MoDo squad.
It is expected that Niederbach signs to come to North America after the conclusion of the 2023-24 SHL season.
Simon Edvinsson
As of right now, it is clear why Simon Edvinsson is the top prospect within the entire Detroit Red Wings organization. So far this season, Edvinsson has shown the offensive capabilities that most scouts were doubting from him as he etched closer to the NHL ice surface.
Edvinsson has looked much more comfortable this season after returning from a shoulder injury he suffered in May. Edvinsson has arguably been the most exciting player to watch down in Grand Rapids, specifically his skating shows miles away from his competition. The Swede so far this season is on pace for a new career high in points with six goals and ten assists in 21 games this season.
If not for Detroit's stacked defensive core, Edvinsson would have and should have arguably made the Red Wings lineup. Although he is currently in the AHL, he is likely the next man in line, if an injury or other transaction were to occur.