Should the Red Wings steal this hidden gem?

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Finnegan Frost
June 18, 2024 (2:44 PM)

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As the highly anticipated 2024 NHL draft approaches, Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman is on the hunt to find a potential diamond in the rough.

Often times, the most noteworthy draft picks are underrated players who have been selected in the second or third round. The Detroit Red Wings have a rich history of mastering late round draft pick selections, and they will look to do the same this year. Young Alexander Zetterberg from Sweden is causing hockey enthusiasts to speculate if he might just be the best player to be selected in the third round.

"He is a top-20 European skater, but sprinkle in the North American skaters and what you have in Zetterberg is a late-second to early-third round pick. He plays with vigour and pace, looking to make a difference with every puck touch. The shiftiness and puck skill allow him to open space up for himself, and his vision and center-focused attack help him generate plenty of offence. From a talent perspective, Zetterberg isn't far off from being a first-rounder. The numbers are fantastic, especially internationally."

Being just 5'8", it diminishes his value in the draft quite heavily. Hockey insiders say he tends to get pushed off the puck quite often, but still poses as a formidable offensive threat who possesses elite puck handling ability. Could Alexander Zetterberg be the hidden gem in the draft general manager Steve Yzerman is looking for?

source: The Hockey Writers
Alexander Zetterberg � 2024 NHL Draft Prospect Profile