Promising defenseman looking forward to play for Red Wings
Photo credit: Grand Rapids Griffins
Albert Johansson, 23 years old defenseman prospect for Detroit Red Wings, is focused on trying to earn a spot on the Detroit Red Wings 2024-25 roster.
However, he knows that right now his priority is to contribute to the Grand Rapids Griffins 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs. Despite his aspirations for the future, Johansson understands the importance of staying committed to his current team during their playoff run.
«We're in the playoffs here, so that's where my focus is right now,» Johansson told DetroitRedWings.com on May 18. «But of course, when we're done with this season, I want to go home, work hard and get stronger. I will try to return in as good of shape as possible to fight for a spot (with the Red Wings) next season.»
Albert Johansson has been drafted 60th overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. He completed the 2023-24 regular season with 21 points (six goals, 15 assists) and a plus-7 rating in 66 AHL games. The young Swedish defenseman feels he has made good progress on and off the ice since his debut with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the 2022-23 season.
«Coming into this year, I knew the league and the team,» Johansson said. «We had a new coaching staff, but I think I've taken steps from last year. I know how to live over here now too, really just learning everything outside of the rink. That makes it easier to just focus on the hockey and try to be better every day.»
Head coach Dan Watson said Johansson has been a valuable player for Grand Rapids this season.
«Extremely consistent,» Watson said about the former second-round pick. «You have to watch him a lot to appreciate him. As a coach, he's a guy that you trust to put out there in any type of situation.»
Albert Johansson has recorded two assists in six playoffs games for the Grand Rapids Griffins. The Griffins are currently tied 1-1 against the Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL Central Division Final. Grand Rapids will host Milwaukee for Game 3 at Van Andel Arena on Wednesday night.
Johansson said he is profiting of his moment during the playoffs :
«It's the same mindset, but every game gets more intense and physical because you're playing the other team so much,» Johansson said about navigating his first Calder Cup Playoffs experience.
As a young player trying to reach the NHL, Johansson said that learning from the veterans in Grand Rapids has been one of his biggest priorities in his second AHL year.
«They are very important for us young guys in this league,» Johansson said about his veteran teammates. «It's not easy, so they've made a big impact on us. Things like how to prepare for practice and games, how to be a good pro. I'm glad all those guys are helping us.»
| POLL | ||
MAI 22 | 87 ANSWERS Promising defenseman looking forward to play for Red Wings Do you think Johansson can make the team for the Detroit Red Wings next season? | ||
| Yes | 71 | 81.6 % |
| No | 16 | 18.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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