Signing alert: Detroit Red Wings draftee inks surprising deal overseas
Photo credit: Detroit Red Wings
A goaltender drafted by the Detroit Red Wings surprisingly signed a contract overseas.
Jesper Eliasson, a third round pick in 2018 by the Detroit Red Wings, has officially agreed on the terms of a contract with an organization in Poland.
Indeed, the 25-year-old goalie signed with GKS Katowice in Poland. His new team made the announcement in an official press release:
"GKS Katowice announces the signing of 25-year-old Swedish goaltender Jesper Eliasson for the 2025/2026 TAURON Hockey League season. The goaltender, originally from Eksjö and boasting an impressive physique (191 cm and 95 kg), brings extensive European ice experience to the team."
Since his draft, he spent most of his time in Sweden, playing in many leagues. Last season, with IF Troja-Ljungby, the goalie had an impressive .924 save percentage and a 1.81 GAA in 30 games.
A great opportunity for Eliasson
After great performances for Sweden at the 2020 WJC, many considered him one of the country's top goalie prospects.
However, he never managed to develop into an NHL goalie.
When Eliasson was drafted, The Athletic's Cat Silverman released a scouting report on his style, performances, and what he had to improve.
Here's what she mentioned back in 2019:
"Every goaltender has one side they're more explosive on, but Eliasson will need to significantly improve his ability to move across the crease on his blocker side if he's going to pan out in North America long-term."
Now, with a chance to get a fresh start, Eliasson will look to prove he still has what it takes to bring a team to success.
Over the past years, Katowice has been among the best teams in Poland, reaching the Finals four years in a row and winning back-to-back championships in 2022 and 2023. Last season, the team finished at the 2nd place with a 28-8-4 record.
We wish him the best in the next chapter of his career.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 27 | 30 ANSWERS Signing alert: Detroit Red Wings draftee inks surprising deal overseas Do you think Jesper Eliasson will play in the NHL at some point in his career? | ||
| YEs | 15 | 50 % |
| No | 15 | 50 % |
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