The Athletic’s Corey Pronman, Scott Wheeler and Harman Dayal have compiled a list of their top 20 Calder Trophy candidates, and one Red Wings player made their list:
18. Michael Brandsegg-Nygård — RW, 20, Detroit Red Wings
Brandsegg-Nygård had a big season in the AHL, showcasing his maturity and strength against men. He plays a highly projectable, pro-style game. He’s a tenacious competitor who wins a ton of puck battles and boasts a heavy, accurate shot. He’s not the flashiest offensive player but he has enough speed and skill to project to be able to tilt the ice at the next level. He’s expected to push for a full-time spot in Detroit this season. — Pronman
Continued (paywall); my gut feeling is that Brandsegg-Nygard is going to have a more Emmitt Finnie-like rookie campaign, but if he breaks out offensively, all bets are off.
