Red Wings insider delivers promising update on two-way Swedish defenseman
Photo credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
The Detroit Red Wings have promising news regarding defenseman Albert Johansson, according to Max Bultman of The Athletic; the right-shot defenseman will resume his role on the 2nd-pair.
The Detroit Red Wings had a top-four role up for grabs during training camp. And it appears that two-way defenseman Albert Johansson has claimed a spot on the 2nd pair.
According to The Athletic's Max Bultman, he'll resume his role in the lineup next to defenseman Simon Edvinsson in the top pair.
«Johansson arrived at camp stronger, and more importantly, he's shown up ready to play,» Bultman added. «He's looked a cut above the field theoretically vying for this spot, which includes everyone besides Moritz Seider, Ben Chiarot and the injured Simon Edvinsson. His skating and defensive stick can be weapons, and if he's able to activate offensively to create more offense, he's a real breakout candidate for Detroit on the back end.»
The former 2nd-round pick in the 2019 NHL Draft had received a contract extension from the Red Wings, which will keep him in the winged wheel for the next two years, paying him $2.25 million AAV (average annual value).
The young Swede played almost a full season of NHL hockey, suiting up for 61 games with the Red Wings, and registered 9 points (3-6).
Albert Johansson Takes The Next Step In His NHL Career
The 24-year-old defenseman has taken the next step to forge a career in the NHL long-term.
After his contract extension, Johansson believes that he wanted to make an impact in the lineup, more than just focusing on making the team, which led to where he is now.
A top-pairing defenseman in the NHL, playing next to a former 6th-round pick, whom he will grow with as the two will stabilize the blueline for the Red Wings.
Johansson admitted during the interview, his goal was to stay in shape, get stronger, and improve his game as a player.
Now, after training camp, the fruits of his work are apparent.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
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