The Detroit Red Wings are affording Jonatan Berggren an opportunity to showcase his skills within the team’s forward core. With Dylan Larkin absent and following the trade of Kostin, there’s ample space for the Red Wings to elevate Berggren.
As the Detroit Red Wings engaged in a trade deadline transaction, it sparked initial speculation about their next course of action. While some pondered potential trades, others were already contemplating a call-up for the Red Wings to mull over.
It will be intriguing as the Detroit Red Wings are currently without their captain, Dylan Larkin. Larkin’s absence undoubtedly poses challenges for the Red Wings, creating gaps in their lineup. However, amidst recent speculation, this situation presents an opportunity for Jonatan Berggren to step up.
If the Red Wings intend to recognize the potential of the former second-round pick, an opportunity to join the team appears to be on the horizon. With Kostin traded and the absence of Larkin, a window of opportunity is evident. Confirmation came during the first intermission on Friday that Jonatan Berggren will indeed be joining the team on Saturday, as announced by Steve Yzerman.
Detroit is promoting Berggren with the aspiration that he can integrate into the team, which has been operating with an 11-7 formation in Larkin’s absence. They aim to evaluate whether Berggren can bring a new energy to the team and assist them in their quest to secure a playoff berth as the season progresses.Berggren has appeared in nine games for the Red Wings this season, registering two goals and three assists, totaling five points. However, the majority of his season has been spent with the Grand Rapids Griffins, where he has showcased his talent.
In 43 games with the Griffins, Berggren has accumulated impressive stats, tallying 19 goals and 27 assists for a total of 46 points. He has demonstrated strong offensive skills and has shown significant improvement over the season. Although some may be disappointed that Berggren has been primarily in the minors, he is now set to seize his opportunity.
There were murmurs within hockey circles suggesting that the Red Wings might have entertained the idea of trading Berggren before the trade deadline. It was speculated that given the right deal, he could have been on the move. Nevertheless, he remains a part of the team and is set to be given another chance.It will certainly be interesting to see how Berggren fares upon his return.
He’ll have his work cut out for him, particularly with his first game back against the Vegas Golden Knights, a team that has been making significant strides up the power rankings following their active involvement in the trade deadline.
With any luck, Berggren may secure an extended stint with the Red Wings if he manages to find his rhythm with the team. As Steve Yzerman mentioned on Friday, they intend to promote and retain players they deem suitable to bolster their competitiveness as they strive for a playoff spot in the future.