The Hockey News’s Connor Eargood discusses a good question today, wondering aloud where and whether rookie defenseman Albert Johansson fits into Detroit’s lineup this upcoming season:
When Johansson does get into NHL games, Detroit will probably try to put him next to a more experienced player. That’s what Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde did with Edvinsson last season, placing him alongside Petry during a 14-game call-up to end the season. It’s a way to give young players stability while they square up to the NHL. Either a veteran like Petry, or even a top pairing defenseman like Moritz Seider could provide that support for Johansson during his adjustment period.
Out of all the players available, the most likely course of action seems to be playing Johansson alongside Petry or Maatta on the third pairing. Those proven defenders have the experience to support him, while sheltered bottom pairing minutes allow Johansson to acclimate at a comfortable pace.
Of course, this is the situation before the season — before preseason, even. Johansson could come out swinging and prove he’s an NHL defenseman when he gets a chance this fall. It’s an idyllic expectation, but it’s entirely on the table. He could also come out flat, which would leave the Red Wings with tougher questions to answer than just his role.
Because of Johansson’s contract status, Detroit is in a bind to play him while also playing to win. Figuring out how exactly it should do that is a crucial question this season.
Continued; Johansson’s an unknown quantity until he gets some games under his belt, and he’s probably going to have to wait for a spot in the lineup to open up via injuries or trades…But when he does get into the lineup, he’ll have to steal somebody’s job to earn regular playing time.
It’s the fate of just about every player who runs out of waiver-exempt status and becomes an NHL rookie by default.
