Duffer’s Dabbles: Red Wings Prospects Edvinsson, Niederbach, Viro Heading To World Juniors

Three more pieces of the future of the Detroit Red Wings will be on display at the upcoming IIHF World Junior Championship. Defenseman Simon Edvinsson and forward Theodor Niederbach have been selected to represent Sweden in the event. Defenseman Eemil Viro will be playing for Finland.

Edvinsson, 18, was the Red Wings’ top pick, sixth overall, in the 2021 NHL entry draft. He’s off to a strong start with Frolunda of the Swedish Hockey League. Edvinsson has put up 1-10-11 totals and a +5 rating in 22 games.

“He’s a big, rangy D that can really skate,” Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman. “He’s got good puck skills. We just see his potential to be a defenseman that can log a lot of minutes and be a solid defender that can add some offense as well.

“We like his skating ability, his size, his reach. We’re hoping he can become a big-minute defenseman for us.”

Selected 51st overall in the 2020 NHL entry draft, right-winger Niederbach is showing 2-4-6 numbers in 26 games for Frolunda.

“Niederbach’s a skilled, smart centerman, [a] right-hand shot,” Yzerman said. “Very talented, very skilled.”

Red Wings Like Viro’s Character

In 2020, Detroit was opting to claim Viro with the 70th selection of the draft. He’s totaled 1-2-3 digits in 25 games for TPS Turku of the SM-liiga.

“Just a full character kid, has real leadership qualities,” Red Wings director of amateur scouting Kris Draper said. “He knows how to play the game, he plays the game the right way.”

Around The NHL

Detroit: Big, heavy teams continue to cause problems for the Red Wings.

Pittsburgh: In the midst of a 13-game point streak, Penguins forward Jake Guentzel is listing as week to week after blocking a shot with his hand.

Boston: Former Red Wings forward Tomas Nosek is out of the Bruins line with a non-COVID illness.

Colorado: Just in time to face the Red Wings, Avalanche goalie Darcy Kuemper is off the injury list and back in the net.