Detroit Red Wings: Patience with Michael Rasmussen Starting to Pay Off
Michael Rasmussen was always expected to have a solid NHL career. Although he started slow out of the gate, he is turning the corner now for the Detroit Red Wings.
It has taken more than a few games, but Detroit Red Wings rookie forward Michael Rasmussen has learned to use his large frame (6′ 6″) to his advantage. He is very good at protecting the puck and can retrieve it down low.
At just 19-years-old Rasmussen is showing signs why the Wings were right to let him play through growing pains. Michael has the makings of becoming a top-six forward written all over him. Goals and points aside, the front office, coaches and fans could see there was a good player in there.
Currently, Michael Rasmussen is riding a 3 point game streak. He is also netting more ice time. In Saturday’s game vs. the Edmonton Oilers Rasmussen was on the ice for 17 minutes. Every game Rasmussen is learning to use his body more impactful as he gains experience.
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He is a top three line player and is on the first line power play. That tells you all you need to know. This is a player who will continue to get better and better. I could make a strong argument that Michael Rasmussen could unseat Anthony Mantha on the Detroit Red Wings top line.
A big player with soft hands is exactly what the Red Wings need. Rasmussen also has strong defensive tendencies. He has improved in the defensive zone since the season started and looks like he is working hard to become more reliable.
When Detroit drafted him 9th overall in 2017, there was concern about his five on five scoring. He buried 15 of his 31 regular season goals last season on the power play for the Tri-City Americans. The Red Wings saw enough in him to draft him. It sure looks like they struck gold with the pick.
Versatility is the name of the game in today’s NHL, Rasmussen has that. He can play both left and right wing as well as center. Mind you I do not think Rasmussen can play top two line center. He is certainly a line three or four player, with the ability to play it well.
For a player who has shot through the Red Wings system. Michael Rasmussen is proving he belongs. He is also showing flashes that his best days are going to be special in the Motor City.
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In a season that demands a focal point or two, Michael Rasmussen’s growth and play has a lot of my attention. I feel he is a real bright spot this season for the Detroit Red Wings. While watching him, I feel like the Winged Wheels are headed in the right direction.