Detroit Red Wings top prospect rejects Steve Yzerman's plans, moves overseas for 2024
Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, the Detroit Red Wings first-round pick in the latest NHL draft, has refused to play in the AHL and will instead head home to play hockey
It's never a good thing when a young prospect rejects the plans you have for him, but that's exactly what Detroit Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman is facing with one of his players. A report from Norran.se out of Sweden states Michael Brandsegg-Nygard has said no to playing in the AHL, and is heading back home.
The Detroit Red Wings signed Michael Brandsegg-Nygard to a three-year entry level contract shortly after selecting him 15th overall in the latest NHL entry draft. Norran states Steve Yzerman wanted Brandsegg-Nygard to play with Grand Rapids in the AHL this season, but he refused.
While it is widely known that the main focus of the AHL is player development over winning, this is usually a complaint of older hockey players who decide to go to league's like the KHL in Russia where winning is the focus instead of getting ice-time for young, developing players. Regardless, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard's request has been granted, and he will play for Skellefte� AIK of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) this season.
At 19 years of age, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard still has plenty of time to develop into the kind of player the Detroit Red Wings need. The refusal to play in the AHL is a risky stance for someone just drafted into the organization, though. Hopefully we'll see him back in Michigan next year.
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