Detroit Red Wings: A Guide to the 2019 NHL Draft
By Cory Mello
Defenseman – Vancouver Giants (WHL), 6’0 194lbs | GP:67 | G:26 | A:45 | P:71
At only 17 years old, Bowen Byram is the best defenseman eligible for this year’s draft. A Hlinka Gretzky cup winner, along with leading all WHL defenseman with goals, (26) Byram is the complete package. The one thing about Byram that separates him from all the other defenseman in this draft is just how good he is at all aspects of the game.
Byram is the ideal power-play QB as he can create plays as well as pick corners with his powerful, accurate shooting. The one thing the Detroit Red Wings need is a defenseman who can calmly play under pressure, Byram can. Byram appears to thrive in that sort of environment as a legitimate threat to change the course of the game with just a single play. Byram is often called upon to play big minutes when the game matters the most. He will make for an ideal prospect for the Detroit Red Wings if he is still around.
Many believe he may not be available at six. While this is true I can sense that the L.A Kings may snag him, I caution those opinions. Craziness always erupts in the draft, and many teams often draft off the board to meet team needs over best available. Barrett Hayton, for example, was selected 5th overall by the Arizona Coyotes in the 2018 NHL Draft.
This was widely considered a reach with many higher profile players available. With that in mind, Red Wings fans know what the team needs; a dynamic all-around powerhouse like Byram. If the Kings select Byram, have no fear, as there are many great options still left on the table.