Ahead of Thursday night’s matchup versus the New York Rangers, the Detroit Red Wings recalled Jonatan Berggren from Grand Rapids.
Derek Lalonde confirmed Berggren would make his NHL debut tonight as Elmer Soderblom is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury. Berggren was called along with Givani Smith, both of who played Wednesday night in Cleveland. Without reps in practice, Lalonde eluded that Berggren may not see any powerplay time Thursday. Depending on the timelines of Tyler Bertuzzi and Elmer Soderblom, that could change on the Red Wings road trip.
The 22-year-old Swedish winger was drafted in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. After dealing with injuries his first two seasons post-draft, Berggren found consistency and became of the SHL’s top scorers, posting 12 goals and 45 points in 49 games during the 2020-21 season with Skellefteå AIK.
Berggren would join Grand Rapids the following season, breaking the Griffins’ rookie scoring record, scoring 21 goals and 43 assists in 70 games. Following a strong training camp, Berggren has continued his strong play, opening his AHL season with four goals and seven points in seven games.
While the Red Wings’ optional morning skate didn’t have line rushes, Berggren will likely slot somewhere in the top nine and will see time on the second powerplay unit. Earlier this week, Lalonde said they wanted Berggren to have stability and likely wouldn’t call him up for a game or two.
