Forward Michael Barandsdegg-Nygard, Detroit (15th overall in 2024) – When speaking of Brandsdegg-Nygard, Red Wings Head Coach Todd McLelland sounds like he already occupies a roster spot to start the season, citing the young man’s high skill level and overwhelmingly physical play on a nightly basis, a combination of traits that have been sorely lacking in Detroit. Players and coaches alike refer to him as the best player on the ice in AHL Grand Rapids‘ post-season run in 2025-26. His two-goal effort against pre-season foe Pittsburgh in a 7-4 Wings’ victory on Tuesday did nothing to alter that notion.
Forward Victor Eklund, New York Islanders (16th overall in 2025) – Eklund came into camp expected to compete for a roster spot in New York, and has done nothing to disappoint so far. Scoring in both rookie exhibitions against New Jersey and again in the Isles’ first intrasquad scrimmage at main camp, he was rewarded with top-line minutes on a line with Ondrej Palat and Cal Ritchie in the club’s latest exhibition game against New Jersey. Fellow Swedes Simon Holmstrom and Emil Heineman, who have played a big part in Eklund’s adjustment to North American life, marvel at his on-ice intensity and compete level.
Forward Tomas Poletin, New York Islanders (106th overall in 2025) – Highly-touted prospect Poletin played at the Isles’ rookie camp, then competed in their first pre-season game prior to returning to Kelowna of the WHL. Known for an incredibly high motor and intense physical play, the 19-year-old returns in time for the Rockets’ contest this weekend versus Penticton.
Goaltender Patriks Plumins (114th overall in 2026) – With the signing of veteran Sergei Bobrovsky and the drafting of Plumins earlier this year, the Leafs are rebuilding a goaltending pipeline with the hole left by the departed Joseph Woll and Dennis Hildeby. Plumins first garnered much attention with his sparkling .947 save percentage through 5 games for Latvia at the U18 World Junior Championship, then followed that up with his strong play at the Leafs’ rookie showcase versus Winnipeg’s prospects. He will continue his development at QMJHL Chicoutimi in 2026-27.
