The Detroit Red Wings have hit that time in the offseason when it’s worth looking at taking a flyer on potentially useful role players.
One such player that comes to mind is former first-round pick Oliver Wahlstrom. The New York Islanders selected Wahlstrom 11th overall in the 2018 NHL Draft. However, the Isles gave up on the Swedish forward, placing him on waivers last season.
The Boston Bruins took a chance on Wahlstrom, claiming him as soon as he hit the wire. However, he was largely underwhelming, scoring one goal and adding one assist in 16 NHL games. He played another 19 games with the Providence Bruins, scoring nine goals and 15 points in 19 games.
Those AHL numbers would point toward a rebound for Wahlstrom. Unfortunately, they weren’t enough to convince Boston to extend Wahlstrom a qualifying offer. So, the 25-year-old RFA became a UFA this summer.
The Red Wings could look into giving Wahlstrom a shot given his age, first-round selection pedigree, and apparent bounce-back AHL numbers. Of course, signing Wahlstrom would be akin to a shot in the dark, but it’s one worth considering.
Wahlstrom could agree to a Professional Tryout Contract (PTO) with the Red Wings. Since he’s unlikely to get a full-time NHL deal, a PTO could be a good way for Wahlstrom to prove he belongs in the NHL.
How Wahlstrom Could Fit into Red Wings’ Lineup
Oliver Wahlstrom is by no means a top-six forward. The Islanders hoped he would turn into one, but it just didn’t work out.
So, the Red Wings could utilize Wahlstrom as more of a bottom-six grinder. He could compete with forwards like Jonatan Berggren and Elmer Soderblom for a fourth-line role. While it seems unlikely Wahlstrom could unseat either one, bringing him in would add competition in training camp.
If Wahlstrom makes the team out of camp, he could take up the Red Wings’ 13th forward spot. That spot looks open for competition, so why not take a flyer on a former first-rounder to fill it?
The Red Wings could sign Wahlstrom to a two-way deal, giving the club flexibility in sending him down to the AHL without clearing waivers.
Wahlstrom Somewhat of a Long Shot for Detroit
The Red Wings would be taking somewhat of a long shot on Oliver Wahlstrom. He’s essentially a first-round bust at this point in his NHL career. However, he’s still young enough to where a team like the Red Wings can take a shot on hoping the change of scenery could help him rebound.
Thus far, there hasn’t been much indication that could be the case. That’s why a PTO makes the most sense. The Red Wings can cut Wahlstrom if he doesn’t make the team, allowing another club to give him a chance.
The Wings lost nothing by taking a flyer on Oliver Wahlstrom. The payoff could be massive if he comes into training camp with a chip on his shoulder. This move could be the savviest one the Red Wings might attempt this offseason.
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