It’s Now Or Never For Red Wings Prospect Mastrosimone

Detroit Red Wings prospect Robert Mastrosimone doesn’t mince words when he discusses his future in hockey. He’s the first to admit there’s much work for him to do in order to carve out a career in the pros.

“It’s definitely going to take a lot of work and a lot of focus,” Mastrosimone said.

It’s also not a stretch to be suggesting that in terms of making his mark with the Red Wings, it’s now or never for Mastrosimone. And he knows he’s got some work to do in order to make that dream become a reality.

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“I could definitely work on every aspect of my game regardless of what it is,” Mastrosimone said. “I’ve really been focusing on my skating and my skill work and kind of being more deceptive on the ice. That’s one of the main things I’ve been focusing on this summer.

“I think it’s going really well right now. I’m trending in the right direction.”

Mastrosimone Changing Course In Pursuit Or Red Wings Deal

In search of carving out a home for himself as part of the future of the Red Wings, Mastrosimone, 21, is moving into a new hockey home for the 2022-23 NCAA season. The 54th player chosen in the 2019 NHL entry draft by Detroit, the senior center is setting a new course in the desert as a member of the Arizona State Sun Devils.

Hey @PHNX_SunDevils, write this one down ✍️

"I'm really excited to see what this team can do, I think we can make a run. You can mark my words right now." – @rmastro9424 on @SunDevilHockey this season 👀

🎧 https://t.co/Y2dZMn7BiM pic.twitter.com/d2nfaX98V5

— PHNX Coyotes (@PHNX_Coyotes) August 25, 2022

He spent his first three college seasons on the East Coast with the Boston Terriers.

“It was the right thing for me,” Mastrosimone said. “I think I need a fresh start, just to get out in front of some new eyes, some new teammates, new coaches, new area. Really just taking a fresh start and getting my game to the next level.”

As a junior at BU, Mastrosimone collected 11-14-25 totals in 34 games.

Seeking To Grow Stronger

Like all developing players, building up strength and adding bulk are at the top of Mastrosimone’s to-do list. It’s one of the reasons he was attracted to what Arizona State has to offer to him.

“Their strength coach Liane (Blyn), she’s amazing,” Mastrosimone said. “She’s an unbelievable person and an unbelievable strength coach. I saw every opportunity to get better there.

Huge thank you to Boston University and all of my teammates for a great 3 years and all the memories made! I am very excited to transfer to Arizona State University and continue my academic and athletic career. Can’t wait to get things started with @SunDevilHockey! #ForksUp pic.twitter.com/QP8nqfNxbJ

— Robert Mastrosimone (@rmastro9424) May 2, 2022

“When I went down there, when I spoke to coach (Greg) Powers and all the staff, everything they preached is exactly what I want. It’s culture, it’s coming up to the rink every day excited to get to the rink. And of course it’s Arizona. You can’t beat the weather.”

Among his teammates on the Sun Devils will be fellow Red Wings draft pick Ryan O’Reilly.

“We’re gonna have a really good team next year,” Mastrosimone said. “I’ve met a bunch of the guys already. Everyone’s a really good guy. The group’s really tight knit.”

The Red Wings have until 30 days after Mastrosimone finishes school to determine whether they will offer him a contract. Otherwise, he woud become an unrestricted free agent.