4. Filip Hronek, D (2-53, 2016)
Stats (Grand Rapids Griffins, AHL): 67 gp, 11 g, 28 a, 39 p, 3 PPG (15 A), 4 GWG, 113 SOG, .58 pts/g (5 pgp, 0 g, 1 a, 1 p, 1 PPA, 12 SOG, .2 pts/g).
Hronek is the best defensive prospect the Detroit Red Wings have. He did extremely well in the AHL, especially for a rookie defenseman, and was tied for seventh amongst all defensemen in scoring (second amongst rookies), was tied for eighth in defensive goal scoring (second amongst rookies), and was tied for 12th amongst defensemen in assists (second amongst rookies). That shows good signs for him going forward, as he’ll be a mobile top-four defenseman.
Filip Hronek did well on the power play, came in handy in clutch situations, and was able to generate a good amount of shots, even as a defenseman. He didn’t do as well in the playoffs, but there’s time. He’s young, at at 20, was one of the most impressive rookie defensemen in the AHL. He might be ready for prime time now, as he should get multiple games (potentially enough to count as his rookie season) next year. If he has an excellent camp, he could even start the year in the NHL.
Otherwise, he’ll get another season in the AHL to prove that he’s far more than one season. If he can do that, then he’s a top-four defenseman heading into the future for sure, and perhaps even more than that.