Detroit Red Wings: Top 10 prospects to track in 2021
By Bob Heyrman
Winger: Jonatan Berggren
Yet, another second-round choice makes it onto this list of Detroit Red Wings prospects to track during the 2021 season. Detroit selected Swedish forward Jonatan Berggren with the 33rd overall pick in the 2018 NHL Entry Level Draft.
Berggren has been enjoying a very successful season in 2020-21, playing with Skellefteå AIK of the SHL. He maintains a point per game pace, recording 24 points in 23 games played this season in the Swedish Hockey League.
The Detroit Red Wings drafted yet another small winger with an abundance of skill. Berggren is a tremendous skater who has displayed elite speed. Another bonus is his ability to get up to speed quickly; it only takes the Swedish forward a mere stride or two to separate from the opponent.
Despite being a relatively small forward, Berggren isn’t easily removed from the puck. He has a strong lower half, and his low center of gravity helps with possessing the puck in the offensive corners. He’s eager to muck it up along the boards and won’t be intimidated by larger defenders.
The 20-year old winger projects as more of a playmaker than a scorer. He’d benefit from playing with someone like Anthony Mantha on the opposite wing, someone who will benefit from a playmaking forward who can deliver the puck in a scorer’s wheel-house.
At times, Berggren will struggle in the defensive zone working against a large, physical winger working the offensive boards, mostly trying to defend a team cycling the puck.
Expect the young forward to push for an NHL spot with the Detroit Red Wings in 2021-2022.
NHL ETA: 2022