MLive’s Ansar Khan posted a morning column today, in which he discusses Red Wings 2023 1st round pick Nate Danielson’s competitive streak:
Connor Bedard called Nate Danielson one of his toughest matchups in the Western Hockey League, and the Detroit Red Wings’ ears perked up.
The words of a generational talent and the first pick in this year’s draft carry weight. It’s not the reason the Red Wings selected Danielson ninth overall, but it helped him rise above any other prospects they were considering with their top selection in this deep draft.
“That kind of stands out in an interview,” Kris Draper, Red Wings assistant general manager and director of amateur scouring, said. “When we heard that, it was something that put a little smile on our face. Same thing with Marco (Kasper, their top pick last year), a very competitive player, very driven player. We feel Nate’s in that same mold. They don’t cheat the game. They’re responsible. They play the right way. It’s a 200-foot game and they have passion for the game.”
The 6-2, 186-pound right-shooting center from Brandon has offensive ability, too, picking up 33 goals and 78 points in 68 games last season.
“Real smart player,” Draper said. “He’s a guy that plays in all-situations. Saw him as an underage as well. Impressive young man in the way he talks, the way he presents himself. Trying to get some centers, trying to build through the middle. It’s another piece for us going forward.”
