The Detroit Red Wings responded to Dylan Larkin’s injury by recalling 2024 first-round draft pick Michael Brandsegg-Nygard from the Grand Rapids Griffins Saturday morning.
Brandsegg-Nygard, 20, has been one of the AHL’s hottest scorers. Before being blanked in Grand Rapids’ 3-2 road loss to the Cleveland Monsters, MBN had netted eight goals in seven games. The Norwegian winger has 32 shots on goal in his past eight games.
Earlier this season, he spent nine games with the Red Wings and managed one point. He looked unsure of himself.
Having spent most of this season in the AHL, he is a different player today. He’s still young but he understands more how to use his physical prowess and his scoring ability in tandem. He uses his big frame and strength to deliver big hits and be strong along the boards. Brandsegg-Nygard boasts a quick release to go with a laser beam shot.
The Red Wings’ press release says Brandsegg-Nygard’s call-up is under “emergency conditions.” That probably means that he is being called because Larkin’s injury status is still unclear. He left the game against Florida midway in the third period after suffering a non-contact injury. Coach Todd McLellan said after the game that the first report indicated it was not a long-term injury.
Even if this call-up is a short-term stay, it might give the Red Wings a chance to get a closer look at his development in practice or maybe a game.
The Detroit team will be heading to New Jersey to play the Devils Sunday in the first game of a four-game road trip that will also include stops in Florida, Tampa Bay and Dallas.