The Detroit Red Wings opened training camp with a 62-man roster, but one name was conspicuously absent: Simon Edvinsson.
The young defenseman sustained a lower-body injury that will sideline him for both training camp and the preseason slate.
General manager Steve Yzerman declined to provide specifics regarding the nature of the injury, but he did express optimism that Edvinsson should be ready for Opening Night.
Selected sixth overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Edvinsson developed with Frölunda HC in Sweden’s SHL before transitioning to North America in 2022 to join Detroit’s AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids. After a brief nine-game introduction with the Red Wings that season, he became a mainstay on the blue line the following year, appearing in 78 games and producing 31 points (seven goals, 24 assists).
While no team welcomes the news of an early injury, the timing may prove a minor blessing. A setback in September is far more manageable than one incurred later in the year — particularly if it had jeopardized his availability for the postseason. Detroit’s defensive core, which has been an area of concern in recent years, will be counting on Edvinsson’s presence to stabilize its structure when the season begins.
Carter Bear cleared to play
In brighter news for Detroit, the organization received a boost with the clearance of top prospect Carter Bear. The 18-year-old forward, drafted out of Winnipeg, has fully recovered from the partial Achilles tear he suffered last season when cut by a skate blade.
Bear was withheld from the Red Wings’ rookie showcase against the Dallas Stars as a precautionary measure, but Yzerman confirmed he is now healthy and slated to appear in preseason action beginning next week.
Every team goes through this at the beginning of the season, but Detroit fans need not worry. This team still has the depth to compete for the time being.