Detroit Red Wings: Top 3 players to draft with the fourth overall pick

2. Marco Rossi

You need skill to win in the NHL. And other than Lafreniere, there’s not a more skilled prospect in the 2020 draft than Marco Rossi. The forward from Austria blew the field away in his draft season.

He made a bold decision to come to North America two seasons ago. After posting 51 points in 34 games in Switzerland’s top under-20 league at the age of 15, Rossi decided to come to the CHL, where he was drafted by the Ottawa 67s of the OHL. In two seasons, he averaged well over a point per game. This season, Rossi put up eye-popping numbers – 39 goals and 81 assists for 120 points in 56 games.

It’s worth noting he’s already 18 years old and because of his late birthday, he spent his entire draft season as an adult. Still, Rossi’s skill is off the charts. His size is a bit concerning, but he’s an excellent skater who knows how to use his lack of size to his advantage, so I don’t think it’s a huge concern.

The Red Wings built their dynasty in the 1990s and 2000s by finding gems like Rossi. Of course, back then, they’d draft them in the later rounds. But still, why not go back to what worked in the past? The Red Wings need skill and Rossi’s the perfect guy for them to pick.