The 2026-27 season is shaping up to be one of the most important years for the Detroit Red Wings. With questions surrounding the roster, plenty of young players looking to take the next step and a new-look offense, there are several players who could surprise fans this season.
Here are three early hot takes I believe could actually happen.
Marco Kasper becomes a 60-point player
This might be the boldest prediction of the three, especially considering Kasper finished last season with just 19 points in 81 games.
But I don't think his production last season tells the entire story.
Kasper has always shown the ability to play a strong two-way game, win battles and create opportunities. What he has lacked is consistent offensive production. With Detroit needing more offense from its younger players, Kasper could finally receive the minutes and offensive opportunities necessary to break out.
A move into a larger role, potentially alongside more skilled players, could make a huge difference. If Kasper can become more confident offensively and improve his finishing, a 60-point season isn't as crazy as it sounds.
Alex DeBrincat re-signs for $10 million and scores 35+ goals
This one is a massive hot take but there is a path to it.
DeBrincat just finished an outstanding season, scoring 41 goals and 85 points in 82 games.
If he follows that up with another 35-plus goal, 75-plus point season, his next contract could become extremely expensive. Detroit would have to decide whether DeBrincat is one of the players they want to build the offense around.
At $10 million per season, that's a huge commitment. But if DeBrincat proves he can consistently produce at an elite level, the Red Wings could decide he's worth the price. His ability to score on the power play and create offense at five-on-five makes him one of Detroit's most important offensive pieces.
Michael Brandsegg-Nygård scores 25+ goals and 45+ points
This may be the most exciting prediction.
Brandsegg-Nygård already showed flashes of what he can become during his first NHL opportunities, while dominating stretches of his time with Grand Rapids. He finished his 50 AHL games with 16 goals and 37 points.
Now imagine what happens if he earns a full-time NHL role and starts playing with more skilled linemates.
He's physical, competitive and has a scoring touch that could translate extremely well to the NHL. If Detroit gives him consistent minutes and some power-play opportunities, I could see him becoming one of the biggest breakout players on the roster.
Twenty-five goals and 45 points would be a huge jump but that's exactly what makes it a hot take.
And if all three of these predictions happen, the Red Wings could look like a completely different team by the end of the season.
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