Embed from Getty Images Last week a t.v. announcer reported Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman is considering trading Filip Zadina. I do not feel there is any traction to that story. Meanwhile, Filip Zadina’s game is heating up for the Grand Rapids Griffins.
Filip Zadina has scored in 3 games in a row for the Griffins. He has 5 goals in his last 7 games. Giving him 6 goals, and 9 points in just 15 games played this season.
Zadina was given a clear shot to make the Detroit Red Wings roster out of training camp. But Zadina did not. He did not score, he wasn’t noticeable on the ice, also Zadina seemed to be lacking confidence.
There is little question Zadina possesses an NHL quality shot, and he has been working hard at both ends of the ice. The thought with the Red Wings fron office was it would be nice to see Zadina take a big step forward in his development in Grand Rapids this season.
Last season Filip Zadina had 16 goals and 35 points in 59 games for the Griffins and one goal and two assists in a nine game call-up with the Red Wings late in the season.
At just 20 years old, the Red Wings are going to be patient and do what is best for Zadina’s development. During the Prospect Tournament as well as Red Wings training camp Filip Zadina did not score. For a young player looking to make a good impression it simply did not happen.
Now with his scoring slump behind him Zadina is showing exactly why he is Detroit’s top prospect. The goals are coming in bunches, after all that was on his scouting report. Zadina is one of those rare young talents, who when he get’s it all going can carry a team. That is what is happening in Grand Rapids.
What has been equally impressive is his work away from the puck. Last season that was a clear weakness. Zadina has worked hard to clean that up. He is more attentive in the defensive end as well.
In a rebuilding season, Filip Zadina is giving Detroit Red Wings front office and fans a look at the future. One that is not too far away.
