DETROIT — Michael Brandsegg-Nygård and Axel Sandin-Pellikka have embarked on their American Hockey League (AHL) careers, debuting with the Grand Rapids Griffins in a 4-1 loss to the Rockford IceHogs on April 18.
Reassigned by the Detroit Red Wings from Skellefteå AIK of the Swedish Hockey League, both players joined the Griffins on April 15. Brandsegg-Nygård and Sandin-Pellikka shared their enthusiasm for joining the team with Bob Kaser, the AHL affiliate’s play-by-play commentator.
“I heard it’s a good city,” Brandsegg-Nygård commented, expressing anticipation to play in front of Grand Rapids fans.
Brandsegg-Nygård, who tallied 11 points during his first season at Skellefteå AIK, became the first Norwegian selected in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft by the Red Wings, 15th overall in 2024. He expressed a desire to inspire young athletes in Norway, as Mats Zuccarello has done for him.
The Norwegian discussed the importance of his move to Sweden at 16 for his development, balancing between Norwegian men’s team opportunities and pursuing junior hockey in Sweden.
Stoked to play in North America, Brandsegg-Nygård is mindful of the expectations following his draft selection. “It’s cool to hear people talk about that,” he said.
Sandin-Pellikka, praised by Brandsegg-Nygård as “really good,” completed his season in Sweden with 29 points. Already making an impact in the AHL, Sandin-Pellikka registered an assist in his debut game.
“I’m just coming here to try to help the team as much as I can and play my hockey,” noted Sandin-Pellikka, who hopes to transition effectively and compete for an NHL spot.
The influence of Niklas Kronwall, Detroit’s Director of European Player Development, has been notable for Sandin-Pellikka. “He’s been up to Skelleftea a couple of times… I wish he would tell me how to hit like him,” he said.
Both Brandsegg-Nygård and Sandin-Pellikka are setting sights on NHL opportunities as the Griffins prepare for the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs against the Texas Stars.
