To avoid losing Albert Johansson to waivers, the Detroit Red Wings have no choice but to keep him in the NHL this season. It’s clear that another team would be eager to claim him, and the Red Wings aren’t willing to part with valuable assets.
Where Does Johansson Fit In
Determining where Johansson fits in the lineup is a complex question. The team must find a balance between helping him adjust to the NHL and ensuring they remain competitive.
Johansson’s playing style will significantly influence his placement. In the AHL and SHL, he showcased a two-way game that allowed him to control play across the ice. However, the transition to the NHL presents challenges, as he will have less time and space with the puck and will face tougher opponents. Both he and the Red Wings will need to assess how he measures up against NHL players and identify his strengths. This evaluation is a key part of any rookie season.
Competition for Roster Spots
Johansson’s rookie season may be short-lived due to the depth of defensemen ahead of him. With Ben Chiarot and Moritz Seider solidly in the top pair, and Simon Edvinsson likely handling the left side of the second pairing, Johansson faces stiff competition. He may share a pairing with right-handed players like Justin Holl or Jeff Petry, or even play alongside Olli Maatta or Erik Gustafsson. The bottom pair will likely consist of two of the remaining defensemen, meaning Johansson will need to outperform one of them and a healthy scratch to secure game time. This situation could limit his appearances unless injuries or roster changes create opportunities. In short, Johansson is not stepping directly into a top-four role.
Winning Games is the Priority
Regardless of his waiver status, the Red Wings must field a defense that can win games. While Johansson’s contract situation puts him in the spotlight for head coach Derek Lalonde, the team is also focused on playoff contention. Every game counts, as evidenced by the fact that an overtime point last season could have clinched a playoff berth. They need to deploy players who can contribute to winning games. Johansson must prove he’s one of those players this season; otherwise, he risks being a healthy scratch.
This creates a challenging situation for such a young player. He cannot remain in the AHL without the risk of another team claiming him, yet he has not yet demonstrated his readiness to be a reliable NHL player. At a crucial point in his development, when gaining experience is vital, integrating him into the NHL lineup poses a significant challenge. Historically, under Steve Yzerman, the Red Wings have often opted to send rookies back to the AHL to assess their readiness, but that option is not available for Johansson, compelling the team to determine how to best utilize him now.
Versatility as an Advantage
One advantage for Johansson is his ability to play on both sides as a left-handed defenseman, effectively expanding Detroit’s options. While adjusting to playing on the off-hand may present challenges, it is certainly preferable to being benched as a healthy scratch.
When Johansson gets the chance to play in NHL games, it’s likely that Detroit will pair him with a more experienced player. Last season, Coach Lalonde employed a similar strategy with Edvinsson, pairing him with Petry during his 14-game stint at the end of the season. This approach provides young players with stability as they navigate the NHL. Whether alongside a veteran like Petry or a top-pairing defenseman such as Seider, Johansson could benefit from the guidance of an experienced player during his transition.
Possible Pairing Scenarios
Among the various possibilities, it seems most likely that Johansson will be placed alongside Petry or Maatta on the third pairing. These established defenders have the experience to support him, while the more sheltered minutes of a bottom pairing allow Johansson to acclimate at a manageable pace.
Of course, this assessment is made before the season even begins and prior to the preseason. Johansson might impress and establish himself as an NHL defenseman when given the opportunity this fall. While this is an optimistic expectation, it is certainly feasible. Conversely, if he struggles, the Red Wings will face more complex questions beyond just his role.
The Balancing Act
Due to Johansson’s contract situation, the Red Wings find themselves in a difficult position, needing to integrate him while still focusing on winning. Figuring out the best strategy to achieve this balance is a crucial issue for the upcoming season.
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