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Red Wings' Axel-Sandin Pellikka comments on biggest adjustment playing at the NHL level
Photo credit: NHL.com
Detroit Red Wings Defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka made his NHL debut this season and has had to make an adjustment to not only North American ice, but his utilization by Todd McLellan.
Sandin-Pellikka was a 17th overall pick in 2023 by the Detroit Red Wings.
The former Skelleftea defenseman made the opening night roster out of training camp, and he's been on a rollercoaster ride acclimating to the NHL.
In 15 games, he's scored 4 points (1-3) as a Red Wings defenseman, occupying a spot in the top-four pairs.
Not only does he play a top role in the defense, but he's found a home on the team's 2nd power-play unit.
He scored his first NHL goal on October 17th, against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
McLellan has also given him special team duties on the penalty kill, increasing his duties.
However, the adjustment period is not as quick as you'd expect, even in the case of a 1st-round pick.
Sandin-Pellikka did comment, "I'm getting more comfortable".
"I've learned it's a tough League, the best in the world," Sandin-Pellikka explained following Friday's practice. "You learn something every game, and you can't always be perfect. I try and tell myself that when Im pissed off at myself after a not-perfect game."
Axel Sandin-Pellikka's adjustment to the NHL will take time
There comes more responsibility playing in the NHL, compared to playing in the SHL, where Sandin-Pellikka began his hockey career.
Minding the gaps in defense and picking up your coverage early is something he's had to adapt to, all the while he's had to learn how to get pucks through coverage for the Red Wings.
"The defensive part is one thing, the gaps and picking your guy up early, that's one thing I've learned," he said. "And in the offensive zone, it's not as easy to get pucks through as it has been before. I'm still learning and I'm getting more comfortable each game."
Todd McLellan believes that Axel Sandin-Pellikka can improve his play as time progresses, and he's given him plenty of time on the ice to pick up good habits, playing under 19 minutes a night in 14 games.
The team hasn't tapped into his full potential just yet.
| POLL | ||
NOVEMBRE 8 | 260 ANSWERS Red Wings' Axel-Sandin Pellikka comments on biggest adjustment playing at the NHL level Do you think defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka of the Detroit Red Wings is a future top defenseman in the league? | ||
| Yes | 203 | 78.1 % |
| No | 57 | 21.9 % |
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