Detroit Hockey Now’s Bob Duff wonders aloud whether Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, Marco Kasper or Albert Johansson can “break out” offensively over the course of the upcoming season. We’ll examine his take on Johansson as more production from #20 may push him up the Wings’ depth chart:
Does Albert Johansson Have More Offense in Him?
As a third-pairing defender, Albert Johansson has proven to be a steadying presence. He’s not spectacular at anything, but the fact that he recognizes his limitations and plays within himself has helped to make Johansson effective in his role.
On those rare occasions when he goes on offensive forays, Johansson has produced some highlight-reel goals.
He’s scored three goals in each of the past two seasons. Does Johansson have more to give in attack? He thinks so.
“I would say I was maybe a little bit more offensive defenseman back home in Sweden when I played there,” Johansson said. “And then since I came over here, I focus a lot on my defensive game. I think I’ve been taking steps in that way, and now I feel like my offensive game kind of shows up a little bit more over here, too.”
Continued; Johansson could propel the Red Wings’ defensive depth forward even if he’s only able to push himself to producing offense at a semi-regular pace.
