Axel Sandin-Pellikka probably won't make the big club early, since he'll have a learning curve in North America. But, learning curve or not, he's got more talent than anyone else in the Wings prospect pipeline, and that means he could catch on faster than the average newcomer.
Whether he was in the SHL or playing internationally last season, Sandin-Pellikka brought an offensive presence that foreshadows what he'll do in Grand Rapids and, ultimately, Detroit. In the SHL, he finished with 29 points and 12 goals in 46 contests, while taking over the international scene.
Four goals and 10 points at the World Juniors for Team Sweden will tell you a thing or two, a group he captained during that seven-game run. Not to mention the fact he put up eight points in 11 contests during the SHL playoffs, concluding an epic campaign and momentum that he can take to the States and Canada.
Axel Sandin-Pellikka is that offensive defenseman the Detroit Red Wings need
Right now, the Wings have Moritz Seider as their top blueliner. Seider's the do-it-all type who's always willing to lay the smackdown and block any would-be shot that comes his way.
He and Sandin-Pellikka could make a brutal top-pairing in the NHL once the latter's ready to roll. While Seider's going to hit opponents all game long, Sandin-Pellikka would be the offensive powerhouse looking to pass teammates open, where they'll have plenty of room to fire a shot at the net.
And if you thought the Red Wings power play's good as is, Sandin-Pellikka will add another dimension to it, guaranteed. You'll witness the preview over in Grand Rapids this season, and you'll also quickly find out that, if Sandin-Pellikka can't make something work, he's not afraid to take the puck for himself and find twine.
What kind of defensive game is Sandin-Pellikka bringing?
But are you gonna see a defenseman who's only a blueliner in name only? A forward playing the position, in other words? Not at all.
Sandin-Pellikka's an excellent skater, and that goes for all three zones. You may not see him knock around opponents like Moritz Seider does, but Sandin-Pellikka will force them inside since he does an incredible job defending his side of the ice, especially along the boards.
This year, Grand Rapids is Sandin-Pellikka's proving ground, and look for him to prove he belongs fast. And I wouldn't put it past him for ice time wearing that clasic Winged Wheel during the regular seasonf for a few games, not simply during a showcase.