Detroit Red Wings officially part ways with 22-year old forward
The Detroit Red Wings organization is officially set to part ways with a 22-year-old forward.
NHL teams had until today, June 1st, to offer contracts to their unsigned, drafted prospects.
In a new development, it appears that the Red Wings will let one of their prospects walk away from the organization.
Indeed, Liam Dower-Nilsson, drafted 134th overall by Detroit in 2021, will remain in the SHL, where he's been playing for the past three seasons, instead of coming over to North America for the next season.
Dower-Nilsson agreed on the terms of a one-year contract extension with Björklöven, in the Swedish Hockey League.
The general manager of the team, Per Kentta, offered insights on the signing, saying his return was a surprise, but he's happy that the player decided to remain in Sweden instead of going to North America.
"It was a happy surprise that he wanted to stay. He had both offers and interest from the SHL and also the AHL, but he felt that another year in the Allsvenskan would be best for his development and to take a step in his career. There are not many people his age who are as mature as him and can see the whole picture."
"I am convinced that he is the player with the most potential in our team. I hope he can blossom even more than this year, when he took big steps. Which role he will be given depends on what we find and what we get in. We know that he can play both center and power forward, and it is never wrong to have players who can be used in two positions. Centers are normally not as plentiful."
Last season, Dower-Nilsson scored 41 points, including 20 goals, in 52 games. It'll be interesting to see if the player decides to pursue his hockey career in North America after the next season.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
POLL |
JUIN 1 | 75 ANSWERS Detroit Red Wings officially part ways with 22-year old forward Do you think Liam Dower-Nilsson will come over to North America in 2026? |
Yes | 32 | 42.7 % |
No | 43 | 57.3 % |
List of polls |