Detroit Red Wings' prospect ready to bounce back from injury in the CHL

After being sidelined due to an injury suffered during Skelleftea's SHL preseason, the 19-year-old defenseman has been skating all week and is eager to get back on the ice.

Pellikka, Detroit's 17th overall pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, had a standout season last year with Skelleftea, scoring 10 goals and earning the Borje Salming Award as the top Swedish-born defenseman in the SHL. As he enters his sophomore season, he's focused on improving his defensive play and adding more physicality to his game.

Pellikka will not attend the Detroit Red Wings training camp this year despite his Detroit connection. Instead, he's staying with Skelleftea, where he's determined to help the team defend their SHL title and develop further in a familiar environment. His decision reflects his commitment to honing his skills in Sweden before jumping to the NHL.

In addition to his club responsibilities, Pellikka will represent Sweden in the upcoming IIHF World Junior Championship, where he aims to build on his previous success as the tournament's top defenseman.

Skelleftea's CHL campaign begins this Friday with a match against Austria's Red Bull Salzburg. This game will be a significant milestone for Pellikka as he returns to competitive play.

Source: DetHockeyNow
Red Wings Prospect Rebounding From Injury