Selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Sebrango was anticipating continuing his development in the OHL with the Kitchener Rangers. But as fate would have it, the world and borders shut down and consequently, the Canadien leagues came to a halt. Detroit was faced with a decision that ultimately resulted in Sebrango getting an early professional debut in the AHL. Joining the Griffins for the 2020-21 season once it did get going, Sebrango was given unanticipated control over what his development would look like.

Related: Red Wings Pick Donovan Sebrango Shows Obvious Growth (YouTube)

Skating: Sebrango Adding to His Natural Athletisism

Sebrango has sharp awareness and positioning. As a defenseman back-skating and footwork accuracy are critical. He has good speed when moving backward but has grown by way of his transitions. He does have a natural athleticism that he’s been able to build off of, which is smooth and effortless. He’s a good size for his age, 6-ft-1 and about 194-lbs at the last weigh-in, and he knows how to control his body and movement. In his first season in the AHL, he did get tripped up a bit which likely was due to the pace of the game changing so much. Season-over-season however, he’s shown very positive growth in his understanding of his own movement and of those around him.

He also has a good amount of leg power. Sebrango is able to use the neutral zone and jump in rushes if needed. He’s got good acceleration. though these areas also need growth, he’s shown a lot of mature development in the last season proving he’s capable of becoming a very trusted resource.

Puck Handling: Showing Improved Control

One thing that stood out about Sebrango in the 2020-21 season, was his spotty puck control. Throughout the season, it was clear that it was because the game pace was so entirely different than the OHL, handling the puck was a different game in itself. The transition can affect some and not be a factor for others, but for Sebrango, it was an early factor. His passes would be too hard – or not quite hard enough.

Coming into the 2021-22 season, it is very clear it’s something he’s worked on. His puck control is one area that he’s shown the most improvement. He already had good composing and decision making, but that is now evident in a mature pro-level way. Sebrango has learned to handle the speed of passes and split-second decision-making efficiently. He moves the puck confidently and isn’t afraid to be aggressive with it. He takes chances – trying to boost his offensive game. His passing and shooting will improve further but his increasing confidence has added some power behind his play.

Related: Dennis Yan: Red Wings Prospect Profile

Mental Fortitude: Strong Work Ethic Proving Effective

Any hockey player will tell you that you cannot make it to the top level by being undisciplined. It is clear that Sebrango has a strong work ethic and possesses a discipline beyond his years – like many others in his position. At only 20-years old, he controls his emotions and composes himself well on the ice. He shows a very strong work ethic to excel. In his first season, his emotions were a little trickier to navigate. Sebrango is not reckless, but he feels keen. He’s worked on disciplining those and channeling them in a way that benefits the team.

Sebrango seems to have an understanding of his own game and has learned to channel his confidence. He has a soft-spoken demeanor and conducts himself with maturity which inventively translates into his overall play. The way he articulates himself is similar to present-day Niklas Kronwall – calm, aware, and intentional.

Development Overview

In his first official full season in the AHL, he has shown growth compared to the 2020-21 season. In such a short amount of time and a quick transition from the OHL to the pros, he’s adapted well. For Sebrango, time is going to be key. He’s even-keel and if he can “stay in his lane” and focus on what he can control, he’ll be a suiter for a D-spot in a few seasons.

One thing that he should avoid is the comparison game. With Moritz Seider doing so well in Detroit, the media has already set the bar pretty high for defensemen. It’ll be important for Sebrango to strive to be as good or better than existing defensemen, but he has his own game unique to him which meets a different need of the team. He’s proven to be able to focus and learn quickly, so it’s unlikely he’ll fall into the comparison trap but still should be something he should be cognizant of.

Sebrango is a time investment for the Red Wings. He’s signed through the 2023-24 season and will likely need the full Entry-Level Contract (ELC) time for growth. As others come up from recent drafts and new drafts, he’ll have some stiff competition but could use it to his advantage. That will give Detroit a good glimpse at his reaction to the pressure. He has an element to his game that Detroit could use as the landscape of the NHL club changes in the next two seasons. As with all the prospects, their position in the pipeline and future with the team is up to them.

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Though not a Detroit selection, Yan could be considered a prospect and a veteran one at that. Having been selected in 2015 and spending from 2016-2020 with the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch, Yan brings maturity to the lineup. Adding to his repertoire with the Grand Rapids Griffins, he could be in a prime spot to push his way to the NHL.

With the Red Wings roster fluctuating frequently this season, many prospects that may not have had a chance before, are looking at a good opportunity to earn a call-up. Dennis Yan’s control, trustworthiness, and skill could put him forward as a promising filler if Detroit finds the need.

Related: Taro Hirose: Detroit Red Wings Prospect Profile

Skating: Yan Feature an Adopted KHL and AHL Style

Yan was born in the United States but grew up outside of Moscow, Russia. As a result, he has adopted a hybrid KHL and North American style of skating and play. His smooth, play-making European style is combined with fast-paced decision-making. As a left-winger, he spends much of his time near the boards but typically tries to hold some distance between himself and the wall. He’s not an aggressive or physical player, so maintaining the distance allows him the space to handle the puck without wasting energy being pinned.

He accelerates well along the wing and has very smooth strides – relaxed and not labored. He’s got long strides so he can cover a good amount of ice fairly quickly. If ever in the center lane, he does struggle to cover that much surface, however. It’s rare he ends up there unless it’s a special team situation, but is an area of improvement.

Puck Handling: Capitlizes on Tight Passing Lanes

A further indication of Yan’s Russian-influenced game is his handling style. He’s a smooth passer and has very intentionally timed reactions. He’s quick to make a pass or play, once convinced of the end result. He doesn’t get frazzled so his timing is very calculated. A “pass first” style is pretty indicative of familiarity with a larger surface. He keeps the puck close and can thread a lane for more risky passes if necessary.

Watch: Dennis Yan Makes Return to Grand Rapids Griffins

His board work needs work, but that is likely just due to his physical play needing a push. He is able to handle well along the boards, but if that space is taken away, he struggles a bit. He can get the puck out and open ice but it’s not as natural or smooth as his other elements.

Yan is an excellent shot as well. Though more apt to set a guy up, he does take the shot when he’s got the clean opportunity. Much like with making passes, he’s also calculated with his shots on goal. He has about .5pts per game thus far on the season, so he’s producing but is strategic.

Mental Fortitude: Composed and Focused

Starting the 2021-22 season off with an early appearance on injury reserve, he doesn’t show any signs of reservations or lack of confidence in his return. Often injury can play mind games, and he seems to have recovered well. Yan did spend part of 2020-21 with Grand Rapids, so he had expectations and a foundation to build off of.

Showing up in every aspect of his play, he’s very composed and cerebral. He’s a thoughtful skater and not prone to overreaction. When in high-pressure situations he maintains a calm demeanor and just performs the task at hand. He is among the 1st and 2nd lines of the powerplay unit which shows trust in his ability to set a tone. Especially with how unpredictable the last two seasons have been, his calm is much needed.

Development Overview

Dennis Yan wouldn’t be considered a traditional “prospect” at this stage in Detroit’s development as a whole. However, if ever there was a time for an older non-NHL player to make the jump, it would be now. Yan’s hybrid playstyle is unique to him and adds an artistic element to the game.

Though he needs to build on his physicality, it’s not a major detriment to his eligibility for the NHL or skillset. He’s got the foundational pieces, maturity in the league, and mindset to make the move if called upon. He’s needed more in Grand Rapids right now, especially in regards to special teams, but his time could come.

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Related: Brattstrom Struggling Start in Grand Rapids

Having built a solid professional foundation, Brattstrom’s move to the United States was anticipated to follow a similar trajectory. Aside from the obvious ice size and speed difference – European ice is 15-ft wider – Brattstrom’s transition had yet to have any major early stumbling blocks. With his debut in Grand Rapids with the Griffins, a few glaring concerns came to light, however – reminiscent of fellow countryman, Filip Larsson.

Now assigned to the Toledo Walleye (ECHL), Detroit and Grand Rapids are looking to salvage his rough start in hopes of reversing a possible repeat situation for our goaltending pipeline.

Skating: Brattstrom Hoping to Build off Athletisism

Having mature athleticism and fast reflexes, Brattstrom has components of strong goaltending. Back in Europe, he was able to develop an aggressive approach – almost offensive. He likes to play the puck which in a European setting, works given there is more time and space to work with. He has quick lateral movement and sharp reflexes. Given his larger frame, 6-ft-4, he does move with intention and gets from point “A” to point “B” with little wasted energy.

Brattstrom is also able to tap into some impressive reflexes – similar to the stacked pad, old-school style of the late ’90s. Much like former Red Wing goalie, Dominik Hasek, Brattstrom has an exaggerated style. At this level of play, it’s not a bad style, in fact, it’s rather refreshing. However, the speed of the game goes does impact the efficiency of that style.

With his aggressive style of play, he does like to go behind the net to help play the puck. The biggest lapse in performance seems to be in the ability to get back to the crease – again, likely due to the increase in speed of th North American hockey.

Handling & Playmaking: Adapting to the Need for Speed

In his few starts in Grand Rapids, Brattstrom’s biggest Achilles heel became apparent. Playing the puck is critical for any goaltender regardless of the situation. Knowing when to freeze it versus playing it out can be the difference between a win or loss. In four games with Grand Rapids, this is what hurt Brattstrom. His desire to play the puck resulted in several turnovers and consequently, losses. Posting a 5.32 GAA and .835 SA% in those four games, it’s clear that though his intentions are well-meant, as of now it’s not quite where it needs to be.

Being overcome by the speed has directly impacted his ability to make split-second decisions regarding puck placement. To be clear, it is not for a lack of ability but rather a lack of speed. Brattstrom does show foundational signs that he understands where plays need to be. The early concern is simply not recovering fast enough. He has the ability to pair both his offensive style and athleticism into an excellent combo – he just hasn’t yet.

Mental Fortitude: Developing the Mindset

In a sink or swim Red Wings prospect pool, goaltenders have a much larger eye on them. The pool organization-wide is small for goalies – amplifying failure. Brattstrom’s shortcomings are no different than any other rookie. Adaptation, mental battles with confidence, and overall pressure all rear their ugly heads at the same time.

A goaltender has to have an “I’m in it for the long-haul” mentality – knowing their development takes perhaps more time. In some cases, it moves along faster, but usually, it’s at least three seasons – perhaps more for Euros. in Brattstrom’s case, the early defeats and frustrations did wear on him. Though he did not show his emotion on the ice, the body language did suggest he had difficulty handling the disappointment.

He does have the confidence and ability to win those mind-battles. Tapping into that while also learning to handle in-game, real-time pressure is what needs to happen. It’s not an impossibility for Brattstrom – but will need to be intentional.

Development Overview: Too Soon to Give Up

Victor Brattstrom does have some unfortunate reminiscent struggles as Filip Larsson did – who Detroit has transferred back to Sweden. His biggest asset is his calm demeanor and experience. At 24-years old, he has seen enough professional-level demands to hopefully be able to adapt to the AHL. Having only seen the pace of the game in North America this season for the first time is going to have its hurdles. He has the foundational pieces of a top-tier goaltender – offensive playmaking ability and athleticism. Fine-tuning those skills will be the difference between his success for lack thereof here in the States.

The Red Wings’ development system between Grand Rapids and Toledo will enable him to get the ice time and attention he needs. He’ll be entrusted with more crease time but a fully stacked team in front as well. The constant shift of the Griffins roster, lack of defensemen and familiarity, could have been an issue for him adapting. It’s too soon to despair of Brattstrom – he has the skillset and with added confidence, may be able to ease back into the transition.

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After spending time between the NHL and AHL, Hirose has maintained his production amidst the growing focus on newly drafted prospects. The aggressive development structure Detroit has adopted has put prospects like Hirose in a sink or swim position – making this potentially his last season to earn his wing permanently.

Related: Kirill Tyutyayev: Detroit Red Wings Prospect Profile

Puck Handling: Hirose Flashes Mature Handling Ability

One thing markedly different about Hirose is his sharp playmaking and puckhandling ability. He’s refined his handling over the last few seasons – creating a fast and tight style. He possesses a calm forethought – able to anticipate oppositional choices and can place the puck accordingly without over-correcting.

Hirose also cleverly uses his stick blade-protecting the puck or adding “spin” to a shot. The small action changes the way a goaltender has to anticipate deflections, placement, and rebounds. The minor adjustment shows maturity in handling patience but also, accuracy. Because of his accuracy, he’s one of the main forwards trusted with overtime and shootout scenarios.

Mental Fortitude: Unphased

In the last four seasons, Hirose has yet to lose his temper or focus. Through making the transition from the NCAA to the professional level, Hirose has learned to adapt to the demands and stresses early on. Hirose is by nature, very calm and composed. The frequent stints to and from Detroit didn’t phase him or seem to discourage him. Where he is is what he is focused on – task-centered.

He approaches every situation in stride – relatively unmoved by pressure. The special team situations are where the coaching staff utilizes his mental maturity the most. Hirose has the ability to control his response to external pressures helps create a focused power play and penalty kill. His calm demeanor is a benefit to his linemates. He’s able to take situations for what they are and help refocus those around him.

Skating: Smooth and Effortless

Hirose’s skating ability has been refined as well, alongside his puck handling. At the NCAA level, he outskated everyone which immediately translated to the pro level. His skating ability is one of his most prominent skills which consistently earns him among the top skaters for TOI. He knows how to “hit the gas,” and has only gotten faster.

Regardless of the situation, he oftentimes is leading a rush or can hop on one with little to no delay. So much so, that he occasionally has to make a cognizant decision to slow down to avoid beating out his linemates and causing offsides. His lateral movement is decisive but relaxed – nearly effortless.

Development Overview

Undrafted prospects can often be overlooked among the “superstar” draftees. In many ways, Hirose has fallen victim to that. His consistency, even in the background, has shown an unphased ambition to improve. The place in the time he finds himself in Detroit’s rebuild is a tough one. Like so many others in the pipeline, he faces the reality that the team may be looking ahead to a more draft-focused team.

Though there will always be a need in Grand Rapids and Detroit for “vets,” Hirose could find himself on the Yzerman chopping block following 2021-22. He’s a vital part of the Griffins organization, but the changing tide of Detroit’s development leaves no guarantees. He is a phenomenal player and will be successful wherever he goes. Whether it continues to be with Detroit however, remains to be seen.

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Skating: Tyutyayev Showing Mature Technique

In his AHL pro debut, Tyutyayev tallied two assists – making an impressive and dynamic first showing. He’s an opportunistic skater, wanting to be everywhere the puck is – regardless of perceived time or space. Though it needs to be honed in and tempered, it works for him. He has short and somewhat choppy strides, but is very quick and can accelerate fast enough to join a rush. He’s decisive with where he’s going and how quickly he wants to get there. He knows where he wants to be and can hit the gas pretty quickly.

Related: A Red Wings Triple Threat Tyutyayev, Grewe, and Brattstrom

His build, now just over 170-pounds, does make him susceptible to getting knocked off the puck when battling larger players, but it’s not an insurmountable obstacle. He uses his agility and nimble movement, to his advantage to pivot quickly out of overpowering situations.

Puck Handling: Comparable to AHL

The pace of the league is something directly impacting his puck handling and playmaking ability so far. Tyutyayev has a quick, almost perpetual head deke, almost looking like he’s always prepping for a pass when handling. It shows a clever, and mature mental game of deception when forechecking. He can weave through opponents well, handling the puck very calmly which gives him a good perspective of the play and if it’s a shooting versus passing play.

As of now he’s not “a shooter” per se but knows how to find a clean lane. He’s capable of making the risky and pointed shots but seems more comfortable creating plays. His board play is well-executed as well. He utilizes a lot more minor backhand and poke-check style passes instead of trapping it.

Mental Fortitude: Experience from Belarus Translating

He’s a young skater, only 21-years old, but has spent plenty of time in the amateur levels of the KHL. Having his final season played out with Yunost Minsk (Dinamo Minsk, KHL affiliate), he’s in an excellent mental position for this challenging first season with Grand Rapids.

He does have a hefty challenge ahead in terms of mental fortitude. The direct competition he would have had in Lucas Raymond is already up top with Detroit. Though it’s one less person to battle within Grand Rapids, what it also means is a spot is filled and Tyutyayev will need to buckle in for the long haul. The up and down of the leagues can be draining. However, Kirill shows positive signs of focus and knows the task at hand.

On the ice, he maintains composure, and off the ice, he carries himself with relaxed confidence which has helped build team chemistry. Naturally, as the season and forthcoming seasons come and go, the true toll will be more evident – if any should arise – as will his ability to adapt to it.

Development Overview

As a relatively small winger, realistically Tyutyayev is looking at three full seasons in Grand Rapids developing. He’s a creative and exciting player to watch and his growth will be no less entertaining. He shows dynamic ability despite his current stature, which will get larger as time goes on. In the meantime, he’ll be able to begin to build off his skating and puck handling ability which will be benchmark features for his professional development.

In the end, he was a risky pick but that doesn’t make him a risk not worth taking. Even as a later selection, a lot of promise can come from taking chances – especially on players with high skill potential. Tyutyayev like many other prospects making their way through the system have the chance to make or break their own careers in Yzerman’s developmental model. Hopefully, under the revamped system, he can avoid the same oversights that plagued his countryman, Svechnikov. Tyutyayev could use this pivotal season to launch himself into the rebuild.

As more draftees and picks come from behind, the critical nature of this season should not be ignored. As it officially takes off, Kirill has the ability to force himself into being a bigger part of the team’s history.

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