Marian Ilitch Owner & Secretary-Treasurer | Detroit Red Wings Website
Marian Ilitch Owner & Secretary-Treasurer | Detroit Red Wings Website
LAS VEGAS – The Detroit Red Wings focused on selecting the best-available player during Day 1 of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, opting for Norwegian wing Michael Brandsegg-Nygard with their first-round pick at No. 15 overall.
Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman described Brandsegg-Nygard as a "big, strong young man" who is "physically developed" and can "really shoot the puck." Ranked fifth among international skaters by NHL Central Scouting, the 6-foot-1, 207-pound prospect is noted for his two-way play and goal-scoring ability.
Brandsegg-Nygard played most of the 2023-24 season with Mora IK in Sweden's Allsvenskan league, where he recorded 18 points (eight goals, ten assists) in 41 games. He also contributed significantly to Mora’s U-20 squad and Team Norway at the 2024 IIHF World Championship.
Yzerman emphasized Brandsegg-Nygard’s versatility: “When he’s not scoring, he’ll still be an effective player. I just think he’s a guy who can play in all situations.” Assistant General Manager Kris Draper highlighted his competitive nature and physical presence.
Yzerman praised Brandsegg-Nygard's shooting ability: “He can really rip it, but it’s not like he’s a one-dimensional shooter. It’s all parts of his game.”
Brandsegg-Nygard expressed gratitude for being drafted by the Red Wings: “It has been a dream for so long,” said Brandsegg-Nygard, who was born in Oslo. He credited his family for their support throughout his career.
Additionally, Yzerman discussed recent trades made by the Red Wings before the draft. These included acquiring Tampa Bay Lightning’s second-round pick (No. 53 overall) and forward prospect Jesse Kiiskinen from Nashville Predators in exchange for defenseman prospect Andrew Gibson. This pick was then traded along with Jake Walman to San Jose Sharks for future considerations.
The draft continues Saturday with Rounds 2-7 starting at 11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT. Detroit holds seven selections in these rounds.
For further coverage of the NHL Draft from Sphere in Las Vegas, visit DetroitRedWings.com throughout the weekend.
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