Detroit Red Wings' steal of 2023 NHL draft earns first start in 33-save shutout playoff win

Steve Yzerman surprisingly pulled off a masterclass in 2023, drafting defenseman Axel Sandin Pellikka 19th overall, goaltender Trey Augustine at 41 and Rudy Guimond at 169, after being projected to go 17th overall.

In addition to those star-studded prospects, the Red Wings have already signed Emmitt Finnie, their 7th round, 201st overall selection in the 2023 draft who's broken through and shown great promise early on before joining the Grand Rapids Griffins, scoring 37-goals with the Kamloops Blazers.

All eyes are now turned on Rudy Guimond, who finished his season in the QMJHL (Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League) with a 16-0-0 record.

Guimond and his Moncton Wildcats now take on the ultimate challenge, winning the championship as they enter in a best-of seven series against the Quebec Remparts.

In their first game on the hunt for the sought after Gilles-Courteau Trophy, Guimond posted a 33-save shutout to give Moncton a series leading 2-0 lead.

The 6-foot-4 Red Wings prospect was named first star of the game, which is no ordinary feat for Rudy.

Guimond is just one of the stat-padding goaltending prospects in the Red Wings organization, alongside Sebastian Cossa and Trey Augustine, who both have potential to be NHL starting goaltender.

The Red Wings also have goaltender Carter Gylander and Jan Bednar in the system, playing for the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL, and the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL. Guimond is expected to give both of them a run for their money at making the NHL once he turns pro, which is expected to be whenever his playoff run ends with the Moncton Wildcats.

Rudy has had a lifelong dream of donning the Red Wings jersey, and it seems as though his time to do so is just moments away.