As Axel Sandin Pellikka’s first NHL training camp with the Detroit Red Wings nears, he’s channeling his inner Pointer Sisters.

He’s so excited. And he just can’t hide it.

“I’m really excited about the chance to experience the dream I’ve had since I was 14,” Sandin Pellikka told writer Gunnar Nordstrom of Swedish website Expressen.

Chosen 17th overall by the Red Wings in the 2023 NHL entry draft, Sandin Pellikka’s arrival in Detroit is much anticipated by the team’s fanbase. He’s a two-time winner of the top defenseman at the IIHF World Junior Championship. Sandin Pellikka also rewrote the Swedish Hockey League record book for scoring marks by junior-aged defensemen.

He got a taste of the North American game late last season with the AHL Grand Rapids Griffins. In preparation for his first NHL camp, Sandin Pellikka has already spent over a week in Detroit.

Vrana Tallies In First Swedish Game

Playing his first game for Linkoping in the SHL preseason, former Red Wings forward Jakub Vrana scored the only goal as his club lost 5-1 to Rogle.

Jakub Vrana målskytt direkt i återkomsten 🚨

Se Rögle-Linköping här: https://t.co/qf31eJai0k pic.twitter.com/CESd9S5D4U

— TV4 Hockey (@TV4_Hockey) August 27, 2025

Afterward, Vrana drew comparisons between the NHL and SHL, as he was back in the latter league for the first time since 2015.

“I would say this is a really high-tempo level,” Vrana told Swedish website HockeyNews.se following the game. “Everyone is skating really fast, and it’s quick.

“I would say that it’s (the SHL) a lot less systematic (than the NHL) when I compare it to North America, but more direct.”

Former Red Wings Forward Joining Hurricanes

Another ex-Red Wings forward has also found a new home. Journeyman right-winger Givani Smith has landed a PTO with the Carolina Hurricanes.

* puts vacation on pause to tell you that *

The #Canes have signed defenseman Oliver Kylington and forward Givani Smith to professional tryouts (PTOs).https://t.co/LNgaUddwsR

— Walt Ruff (@WaltRuff) August 27, 2025

Smith played 85 games with the Red Wings from 2019-23. He led the club with 108 PIM in 2021-22.

Playing three games that season alongside his brother Gemel Smith, they also made a bit of franchise history. The Smiths were the first brothers to suit up together for the Red Wings in a game since Frank and Peter Mahovlich in 1969.