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Andrew Gibson we hardly knew ye.
The Detroit Red Wings signed the young defenseman less than two months ago. Monday, they traded him for two-way Finnish forward Jesse Kiiskinen and a second-round pick in this weekend’s NHL draft. That pick is Tampa Bay’s pick (53rd overall).
GM Steve Yzerman needed the extra second rounder to send to the San Jose Sharks to persuade to take Jake Walman’s $3.4 million salary cap off their hands. The Red Wings need more cap space to re-sign some of their free agents, including defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere.
Both Kiiskinen and Gibson were drafted in the 2023 draft. Gibson was drafted in the second round, 42nd overall, and Kiiskinen was taken in the third round, 68th overall.
Kiiskinen, 18, is a high energy player, relentless on the forecheck. He put up 10 points in 36 games for the Pelicans in Finland’s top league.
The Red Wings seem to be deeper in defense prospects than at forward. Simon Edvinsson and Albert Johansson will be joining the Detroit roster this season, and Axel Sandin Pellikka is now the No. 1 defensive prospect. William Wallinder is ahead of Gibson on the depth chart. Plus, Shai Buium and Antti Tuomisto, both second-round picks, are coming off quality seasons.
Gibson (12 goals, 44 points, plus-36 in 68 games) is coming off a strong season for the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League. He’s a big guy with a hard shot and the potential to be a two-way performer. Gibson spent time practicing with the Grand Rapids Griffins during the American Hockey League playoffs.
Based on this trade, it seems like the Detroit scouts must like the depth of this draft.
Detroit now owns the 15th, 47th and 59th pick in this draft that starts Friday in Las Vegas. The first round is Friday, and the remainder of the picks will be made Saturday.
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