Red Wings prospect Filip Hronek scored a goal and added 3 assists in last night’s Grand Rapids Griffins win over Cleveland, and the Grand Rapids Press’s Peter J. Wallner discussed Hronek’s potential:
He potentially gives the organization a productive offensive-minded blueliner that’s been missing since Niklas Kronwall in the mid-2010s. Kronwall was the Red Wings’ second leading scorer in 2013-14 (8-41-49) and was effective the following year as well (9-35-44). Since, Mike Green had led the team the past three seasons with a high of 36 points (14-22-36) in 2016-17.
Hronek, who tacked up 14 goals and 61 points in 59 games in juniors with the Saginaw Spirit in 2016-17, has made the most of his production this season. His 11 goals have included three on the power play and four game-winners. He was also two of six in shootouts.
“I give him all the latitude possible to play offensive as long as he’s responsible on the right side of the puck and making the right reads,” coach Todd Nelson said. “I’m got going to stifle anyone’s creativity especially someone like him.”
“Everyone said the same thing about Brendan Smith and he’s trash” – Fatsavage probably
That said Hronek appears to have the goods, but obviously needs to prove it in the show.
“I give him all the latitude possible to play offensive as long as he’s responsible on the right side of the puck and making the right reads,” coach Todd Nelson said. “I’m got going to stifle anyone’s creativity especially someone like him.”
wish our “pro” coach understood this.
Amen