Some of the Detroit Red Wings top prospects are developing nicely in Europe.
Currently, five of the top10 scoring Detroit prospects are playing in a variety of leagues on the other side of the Atlantic. Two goaltending prospects are also making headlines as we enter the American Thanksgiving.
Here is a look at some of the Red Wings prospects currently playing in Europe after taking a look at North American juniors last week:
Liam Dower Nilsson continues to have a tremendous season playing for the organization Frolunda in Sweden. Dower Nilsson has scored seven goals and 18 points in 15 games in the J20 Nationell. He has also dressed for seven games at the SHL level and so far has been held scoreless. Dower Nilsson has also suited up for three games with the J20 Swedish National team where he has added two assists. The 2022 World Junior Championships are being played in Sweden, and if he continues his strong play, Dower Nilsson will get strong consideration for a spot on the Team Sweden roster.
William Wallinder
William Wallinder is a left-shot defense prospect with the Red Wings. Wallinder continues to split his time between the Rogle SHL and J20 Nationell teams. In 25 games at both levels, Wallinder has scored four goals and 13 points and a +13 rating. Wallinder also played six games for the Swedish Junior National team where he picked up three assists. Wallinder should also get the call to play for Sweden in the World Junior Championships at Christmas. Wallinder will most likely bring his talents to North America next year and could challenge for a spot with Detroit.
Elmer Soderblom continues to show his offensive flare playing for Frolunda (SHL). Soderblom has scored nine goals and 12 points in 21 SHL games. Soderblom remains unsigned with Detroit but, could sign a contract and make his debut in the Red Wings organization as early as next season.
Albert Johansson
Albert Johansson has been exceptional playing defense for Farjestad (SHL). In 20 games, Johansson has scored two goals and 11 points. Johansson is currently on loan to Farjestad after signing his entry-level contract with Detroit. He should make his North American debut next year either with Detroit or Grand Rapids (AHL)..
Simon Edvinsson
Simon Edvinsson has been playing terrific defense for Frolunda (SHL) this year. Edvinsson has scored one goal and 10 points and a +8 rating in 17 SHL games. Edvinsson will likely sign a contract with Detroit and possibly play for the Red Wings or Grand Rapids (AHL) next year. There is no doubt that Edvinsson will play for Sweden at the World Junior Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden starting in December.
Joren van Pottelberghe is not one of General Manager Steve Yzerman’s draft picks, as he was drafted in the 4th round in 2015. This could be one reason why van Pottelberghe is still playing in Europe. Joren van Pottelberghe remains unsigned with Detroit and is currently playing for EHC Biel-Bienne (NL). In 22 games, van Pottelberghe has a record of 14-7-0, a 2.19 GAA, 3 SO and a .924 SV%. If van Pottelberghe is not signed soon, it is likely that he remains in Europe for the remainder of his professional career.
Filip Larsson is in the final year of his entry-level contract with Detroit. He is currently on loan to HV71 (HockeyAllsvenskan). Larsson seems to be rejuvenated playing back in Sweden as he has an undefeated record of 6-0-0 and a 1.83 GAA, .927 SV% and one SO. Larsson will need to re-sign with Detroit before next summer if he has any chance of remaining with the Red Wings organization.