Top 25 Red Wings Prospects of 2019: #10 Gustav Lindstrom

Signed until 2020-21 with a cap hit of $775,833, the last two years of Lindstrom’s entry level deal will be telling about where he fits into Detroit’s long term plans. Being the 3rd defenseman on the list and starting the top 10, the expectations are high, but so is the potential.

Overview
Drafted: 38th overall in 2017
Height: 6”2
Weight: 187 lbs
Position: D
Shoots: R
Birthday: Oct 20, 1998 (20)
Latest team: Frolunda HC

After spending most of his playing career with Almtuna IS for 4 seasons, the second highest league in Sweden, the season he played with Frolunda HC last year not only stands out because it was a championship winning team, but because the SHL is known for developing players in an up-tempo level of game that will help him transition into the AHL. Lindstrom has earned success during his career in Sweden with accomplishments such as J18 Allsvenskan (North) Most Goals by Defenseman (10) in 2016, U20 WJC Silver in 2018, and this year saw him become both a Champions Hockey League Champion and SHL Champion. Below is a chart of his entire playing career thanks to Elite Prospects, showcasing not only an increase in offense but his development as he’s successful in a mostly men’s hockey league.

 

Lindstrom is a solid defender with a very physical aspect to his game. He is incredibly steady while having a high intelligence at making quick, smart choices with the puck with first passes being a strong selling point of his. Lindstrom’s ability to read lanes and being quick in executing outlets make him one of the standout defensemen in the system. His defensively responsibilities have improved as his skating has upgraded – Lindstrom is calm, composed, and not aggressive on the ice. With an average of 18:46 of ice time, along with his offensive shot, Lindstrom is showing a capability to control not only the puck, but aspects of the game as he gets opposing forwards on the rush. He also likes to play physical, not shying away from big hits on the ice.

The qualities Lindstrom possess along with his signs of progression suggest he can be a big minute player in the NHL. The hockey IQ he already has at his age of 20 puts him high on this list with skills that will continue to develop both in Sweden or North America. Projected as a top 4, that’s his best-case scenario, and will most likely see a lot of power play time as well. His strength is still a concern but starting the season in the AHL will help him develop, with a possible call up later in the season if there are significant injuries for the Wings back end again.