Red Wings Add Two High-Upside Europeans in 2026 RHL Draft

DETROIT — The Detroit Red Wings continued their tradition of investing in European talent during the 2026 RHL Entry Draft, selecting Finnish center Oliver Suvanto with the 27th overall pick before adding Swedish forward Wiggo Sörensson at No. 59.

While neither player was expected to crack the top ten, both were widely viewed as intelligent, projectable prospects with strong two-way upside. Detroit’s front office clearly prioritized hockey IQ, character, and long-term development over immediate offensive production.

No. 27 – Oliver Suvanto, C, Finland

The Red Wings may have found one of the biggest values of the first round by selecting Oliver Suvanto at 27th overall.

Projected by many 2026 NHL mock drafts as a mid-to-late first-round selection, Suvanto is a 6-foot-3 center known for his mature defensive game, strong skating, and ability to control play in all three zones. Scouts consistently praise his positioning, puck protection, and leadership qualities.

Although he isn’t considered a flashy offensive player, Suvanto projects as the type of reliable top-six center every championship team needs. His style has drawn comparisons to Aleksander Barkov because of his size, defensive awareness, and calm decision-making.

For Detroit, the pick represents exactly what the organization has always valued: a smart, responsible player capable of anchoring the middle of the ice for years to come.

No. 59 – Wiggo Sörensson, C/W, Sweden

Detroit doubled down on European talent by selecting Swedish forward Wiggo Sörensson in the second round.

Sörensson entered the draft as one of the more intriguing sleepers. His offensive instincts, competitiveness, and relentless work ethic helped him climb scouting lists throughout the season. While some questioned the level of competition he faced in Sweden, his creativity and ability to generate scoring chances made him an attractive developmental prospect.

At No. 59 overall, the Red Wings may have landed one of the steals of the second round.

Sörensson projects as a versatile middle-six forward capable of playing both center and wing. His speed, vision, and willingness to battle in difficult areas fit perfectly with Detroit’s modern, aggressive style of play.

Building the Future

Detroit’s 2026 RHL Draft class reflects patience and long-term planning.

Oliver Suvanto provides a high-floor, dependable center with legitimate top-six potential, while Wiggo Sörensson offers offensive upside and the possibility of becoming a dynamic secondary scorer.

Neither player is expected to make an immediate impact, but if their development follows the trajectory many scouts envision, the Red Wings may look back on this draft as a turning point for the organization’s future.

Draft Grade: A-

The Red Wings didn’t chase the biggest names on the board. Instead, they selected two intelligent, hard-working European prospects whose styles perfectly match Detroit’s identity. If both players reach their ceilings, this draft could become one of the franchise’s strongest in recent memory.