We're raring to see Sebastian Cossa in action, hoping he can give fans enough confidence to say, "Yes, he's our goaltender of the near future." While he's a longshot to make the lineup right now, don't think it means he's not walking into the preseason with a boulder on his shoulder.
In an interview during training camp, Cossa said, "There's a bit of a chip on the shoulder when it comes to that. I want to prove I can play at a really high level in the AHL and hopefully get (an NHL opportunity).
"I was rock solid the first half of the year up until to around December, then a couple of injuries in Grand Rapids and Detroit, and you miss a couple of guys and we got into a bit of a slump, the whole team. I wasn't playing great. It's unfortunate."
Good to see Sebastian Cossa owning up to his inconsistencies
Now, I'm the kind of guy who'll say, "Don't say it. Let your actions speak." So, I'm not gonna claim Cossa's coming out there and putting up a slew of monstrous showings, proving to all of us he's the guy for the No. 1 netminder job starting in either 2026-27 or 2027-28.
But I'll say this: At least he's aware that he wasn't that consistent last season. His playoff outing was outright horrific, and it's why I've constantly said he's not ready for a full-time load in the NHL.
Would he handle a few games? Sure. But I wouldn't even think about bringing him up full time, even if the Wings lost either John Gibson or Cam Talbot for the season. I'd scan the waiver wire and see if I could find a hidden gem, then go from there.
Under no means would I bring Cossa up unless he's crushing it in the AHL. And even then, it'd be as a last resort. Let him dominate the American league for the year, grow his confidence, and let him take the NHL by storm next season or the following year, in case he spends time as the No. 2 netminder in 2026.
Cossa could evolve into a nightmare for opponents
If we see an outstanding season from Cossa, I'll reword that subheading, replacing 'could' with 'will.' At that point, the Wings would've properly developed him, and he'll be more than ready for the move to the big club.
So, if he's saying he's got a 'chip' on his shoulder, that's great. But if I have any advice for Cossa, it's that you need to play like you got a boulder on your shoulder. Do that, and you'll be the netminder for what will be a playoff-caliber team heading into 2026-27 or, at the absolute latest, 2027-28.