Detroit Red Wings: Grading The Top Six Forwards

Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

After completing the first dozen regular-season games of the NHL 2015-2016 season, Octopus Thrower examines and grades the top six forwards from the Detroit Red Wings top two lines. Let’s start the list with our bearded and fearless leader:

Henrik Zetterberg

After 12 games played this season, Henrik Zetterberg currently leads the Detroit Red Wings in assists (11) and points (14). Zetterberg’s 11 assists so far this season places him tied for third among all NHL skaters and his 14 points ranks him in the top seven.

With the absence of Pavel Datysuk, Henrik Zetterberg has proven to be the veteran voice and leader of this young Detroit Red Wings team. Hank has earned every stitch that holds his captain patch to his sweater so far this season. Along with his line-mates, Justin Abdelkader and Dylan Larkin, Henrik has helped to carry the Red Wings through a trying first month of NHL action during the month of October.

It’s going to be extremely exciting to see what develops when Pavel Datysuk is healthy and returns to action in a few short weeks. Datsyuk will undoubtedly be reunited on Detroit’s top-line with Zetterberg and Larkin/Abdelkader. As the Red Wings continue to push towards a 25th consecutive Stanley Cup Playoff appearance, Zetterberg’s invaluable leadership will continue to be a key factor in the Detroit Red Wings success.

Overall Grade: A+

Next: Justin Abdelkader