Red Wings Sign Albert Johansson
2019 2nd round (60th overall) Swedish Defensemen Albert Johansson Signs 3 year entry-level deal.
On Friday, June 5th The Detroit Red Wings signed Albert Johansson to his entry-level contract. The 19 year old Swedish defensemen played for Farjestad BK of the SHL last season.
While playing in Sweden’s top men’s pro league, Albert was able to tally 2 goals, 11 assists for 13 points. Even though the numbers themselves don’t blow you away, you have to consider most kids at his age are still playing in Sweden’s SuperElit league or are playing in the SHL but in a very limited role with limited minutes. For comparison, 2018 NHL Draft 1st overall pick Rasmus Dahlin had 20 total points the year he played as an 18 year old in the SHL.
Measurements:
Albert Johansson
Defense
Height 6’0 Weight 168 lbs Shoots Left
Playing Style:
Albert is a very slick and smooth skating defensemen, who is fantastic on his edges and can maneuver in all directions. Watching him at The Red Wings 2019 Development Camp there wasn’t a single skating or stick handling drill he didn’t excel at. His skating and puck handling skills are extremely high end and impressive to watch in a practice setting, but what really separates him is his hockey IQ. When he is in a game and everything is moving at top speed he has the poise to handle the puck with pressure and the ability to see the play develop in front of him and the talent to make a play with either his hands or his feet.
Listen to what Albert had to say about himself and his family pedigree
Strengths:
– Elite Skater
– Hockey IQ
– Puck Handling
– Poise with the puck
Weakness:
– Strength/Weight
– Defense game
– Playing a heavier game
What Is Next?
Depending on how things shake out with this Coronavirus pandemic, Albert is most likely destined to return to play for Farjestad BK in the SHL. There has been rumblings that the AHL will not have a season in the 2020-2021 season if they are no allowed fans. Along with uncertainty for next seasons league play there is also a question on whether the World Juniors will take place next season. If it happens, no doubt will Albert be manning the blueline for Team Sweden as one of their top defensemen in that tourney.
Expect Albert to be in Detroit for training camp and the pre-season games to start. At that point, we will know more about the statuses with each league to know where he’s likely to play. Albert has such great talent, that out of all our defensive prospects he has the highest ceiling outside of Moritz Seider. Together they will be manning the blueline for our power plays for the next decade.