DetroitRedWings.com’s Jonathan Mills posted an article this morning which discusses defenseman Simon Edvinsson’s background and attempts to earn a roster spot on a stacked Red Wings blueline:
Detroit Red Wings defenseman prospect Simon Edvinsson is aware of the high expectations surrounding him. And while the 19-year-old is anxious to prove himself in North America, he’s not letting the hype distract him.
“I’ve heard it and what’s being said,” said Edvinsson, who was Detroit’s sixth overall pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. “But it’s positive because you want to take a (roster) place and make things happen for the team. You want to be part of the team and you want to help the team win the Stanley Cup.”
Edvinsson made an impact for Frolunda HC’s Swedish Hockey League team in 2021-22, tallying two goals and 17 assists in 44 games while finishing as an SHL Rookie of the Year finalist.
“You always need to have those (experiences), especially if you’re gonna take a place in the roster,” Edvinsson said. “The SHL is a hard league. There’s a lot of good players and hard games.”
When asked where he felt he improved last season, Edvinsson believes he is a better defensive player.
“I had a great mentor in Sweden,” Edvinsson said. “Christian Folin, who is a former NHL player, helped me a lot with defensive work, how to think in all situations and how to build muscle to be able to compete against those guys.”
