from Ted Kulfan of the Detroit News,

There was no question Simon Edvinsson was going to be drafted quickly last summer. When the Red Wings plucked him sixth overall, it wasn't surprising.

What team wouldn't want to add a 6-foot-4 inch rangy defenseman who can beat opponents in a variety of ways?

But the way Edvinsson has progressed this season has been eye-opening.

And for the Wings, exciting news.

Heading into the upcoming world junior championships in Edmonton, Edvinsson comes in as one of the leaders on Team Sweden, while enjoying a sensational season playing for Frolunda.

Edvinsson has 12 points (11 of them assists) in 24 games, with a plus-4 rating, while playing top-four minutes as an 18-year-old for the powerhouse organization.

Fredrik Sjostrom, the Frolunda general manager, has felt Edvinsson's potential has been an intriguing ingredient for scouts evaluating Edvinsson.

“Simon has tremendous upside,” Sjostrom said. “When you have that size and reach and skate as well as he does, you’re going to go early in the draft. In today’s game, you need speed and ability. He’ll definitely be a top-pair defenseman in the NHL.”

continued