MLive’s Ansar Khan filed a game-day notebook about Albert Johansson’s NHL debut, noting that Albert is the son of former NHL defenseman Roger Johansson:
“It’s going to be a special night,” Johansson, 23, said. “It’s going to be a dream come true moment. I’m really excited. I just want to come in and play a simple game and move pucks and be solid defensively. I think that’s the biggest key for me.”
That was coach Derek Lalonde’s message as well. The Red Wings need to be much better defensively following Thursday’s 6-3 season-opening loss to Pittsburgh.
“It’s been a really nice progression, watching him develop from camp last year to this year and then you get the feedback from the coaching staff (in Grand Rapids), you get feedback from the management team,” Lalonde said. “They were very excited about his development. You can see it. You know what got him here is his puck play, defending, being smart and simple.”
When Johansson was informed Friday afternoon that he’d be playing tonight, he called his family in Sweden. His parents and one of his brothers arranged to get to Detroit as quick as possible and were scheduled to arrive early this afternoon.
“Long day for them, but it’s a special night and I’m happy they could come here and watch it,” Johansson said. “It’s a big moment for them, too. My family, they support me my whole life, so, I’m happy that they’re able to come watch it.”
Continued (paywall)
