MLive’s Ansar Khan posted a profile of Red Wings prospect Cross Hanas this morning, discussing the turning-pro forward’s attributes and mindset as he prepares to make the Grand Rapids Griffins’ roster this fall:
“I’m going to work toward playing in the AHL,” Hanas said. “If they end up not wanting me there then I’ll get sent back to Portland for my 20-year-old year. I’m determined to play in the AHL next year for Grand Rapids. I’m ready for that next step coming into pro hockey.”
That will be determined at Red Wings training camp next month.
Hanas (6-1, 171), a right wing selected 55th overall (second round) in 2020, had 26 goals and 86 points in 63 games for Portland in the WHL. He had just five goals and 20 points in 33 games between Lincoln (USHL) and Portland in the COVID-shortened 2020-21 season.
“Being 19 in the WHL is a big step,” Hanas said. “They rely on you a lot, so I got to be first power play, got to be on the PK. They trusted me defensively because I’ve been working on that. Playing PK this year was one of the first times I was doing that, so I think I grew a lot there. Being out there and playing with confidence, knowing you’re going to get ice time and knowing I can do stuff out there to produce for our team and win.”
