As Detroit approaches preseason play, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard seems to have a circle of interest that changed his original projected post draft year. After having spent a decent amount of time with Axel Sandin-Pellikka and there seeming to be a strong push for the two to play on the same team overseas, something changed. It sounds like the post draft rookie camp showed the coaches and the office something that made a start in Grand Rapids and led to a training camp where Nygard participated but ASP remains in Europe.
If you watch the presser, you’ll hear questions early on about the change in direction and the coach seems to thank the office for being “open” to the possibility of MBN staying in North America. He reiterated that the game is so much different on this side of the pond, that’s just a reality. It sounds like the preseason will see Nygard get power play opportunities and there is a push to see more of the physicality that the first rounder seems to have shown.
One of the reasons this is fascinating is that Sandin-Pellikka has had a good amount of enthusiasm go his way in the online “sphere” with fan channels and even some pundits wondering if the right shot Dman may end up being a regrettable loss down the line. With Hronek’s play and new deal, it doesn’t seem like that will be an issue for a while unless something changes drastically.
There are a couple of moving parts in all of this. Apparently ASP made it clear he wanted another year in Europe and his defensive game and strength need to develop. It may be beg the question as to whether that would be best served in the AHL where the game will be stronger and faster or if the need for more strength could be at the point where the European development offers a less physically taxing scenario on the 5’11” sub 200 lb frame (listed at 185, not sure if that’s still accurate).
For Brandsegg-Nygard, he seems to be enthusiastic to have been in camp and seemingly wants a spot in North America. The conversation shifted, almost as it did for Danielson after his move to Portland last year, with a potentially speedier timeline. Physically, Nygard (listed on Elite Prospects as 6’1” 207lbs) looks thicker and that may be put to the test. There are mixed feelings when a prospect is asked to go be more physical especially when they meet up with NHLers not necessarily keen on being a highlight reel hit recipient.
Today’s presser certainly brought some interesting points along with it. We’ll see where it all lands soon. Let me know your thoughts. Has the enthusiasm on Sandin-Pellikka waned at all or is it just a different developmental path for a defenseman that may require some extra care? Do you exit to see Brandsegg-Nygard in Grand Rapids or ultimately back in Europe for his freshman campaign?
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