How Can Simon Edvinsson Prove He Deserves To Be In Detroit?(+)

It’s always a long journey from the NHL draft stage to playing in the league. But Simon Edvinsson can verify that the final 157 miles, 528 feet from Van Andel Arena to Little Caesars Arena are the most difficult to negotiate.

The 2021 No. 6 NHL draft pick has had an impressive start to this season with the Griffins. Two weeks ago, Griffins coach Dan Watson said this about him: “Within the locker room and on the ice during the games,  he’s been a phenomenal player for us right now. ”

Since then, the 6-foot-6 defenseman has cranked up his offensive game. Edvinsson posted five assists over his past three games and boasts six assists over his past five games. The young Swedish player has three goals and seven assists for 10 points in 15 games. At 20, he’s on a pace to be a 50-point defenseman in the American Hockey League. The AHL only had four 50-point defensemen last season.