The Detroit Red Wings are gearing up for the NHL Rookie Tournament, which kicks off on September 12 at the Belfor Training Center. This event will showcase a roster of 24 players, including six free agents, as the Red Wings compete against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Dallas Stars, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
Among the notable names joining the Red Wings is Haeden Ellis, a 19-year-old right-winger who recently helped his team, the Kitchener Rangers, secure the prestigious Memorial Cup. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 191 pounds, Ellis has a strong background in hockey, having played with USA Hockey’s national team program and in the USHL before moving to the OHL. He is set to continue his development by playing college hockey at Northeastern.
Ellis's recent achievements are impressive, as he played a crucial role in the Rangers' victory over Carter Bear's Everett Silvertips in the Memorial Cup final. This victory is a significant milestone in his career, and he expressed pride in being part of a legacy that includes many future NHL stars. "You look at the names on there, and you know it’s pretty special that your name will be right there with them," Ellis remarked, reflecting on the honor of winning such a challenging trophy.
Joining Ellis are several other promising talents. Cooper Dennis, a 19-year-old right-winger who stands at 5-foot-6 and weighs 153 pounds, is another player to watch. Dennis played alongside Red Wings 2026 draft pick Adam Levac with the OHL Peterborough Petes and is committed to playing for the Michigan Wolverines next season.
Another exciting prospect is Carter Hicks, an 18-year-old right-winger who has already represented Canada at the 2026 World U18 Championship. Hicks, who measures 6-foot-1 and weighs 183 pounds, is currently with the OHL Brampton Steelheads and is committed to the Connecticut Huskies.
The Red Wings will also feature defenseman Brady Ness, a 20-year-old captain of the WHL Moose Jaw Warriors. Ness, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 225 pounds, is known for his leadership skills on and off the ice. Additionally, Michael Dec, a 19-year-old center/right-winger from the OHL Erie Otters, is committed to Cornell University and adds depth to the roster.
Finally, Leo Laschon, an 18-year-old defenseman from Pittsburgh, rounds out the group. Laschon, who played youth hockey for the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite 16U AAA team, is 6-foot-2 and weighs 200 pounds. He is also committed to Northeastern and will be playing with the Oshawa Generals in the OHL this season.
As the Red Wings prepare for the tournament, the anticipation builds around these young players and their potential contributions to the team's future. The NHL Rookie Tournament not only serves as a platform for these athletes to showcase their skills but also provides a glimpse into the next generation of talent that could shape the Red Wings' success in the coming years.
Leave a Comment