Oct 2, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Detroit Red Wings right wing Alex DeBrincat (93) scores a goal and celebrates with right wing Michael Brandsegg-Nygard (28) against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the third period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images Michael Brandsegg-Nygard launched his campaign today to earn a roster spot at Detroit Red Wings training camp today and he has already landed a strong endorsement from Grand Rapids Griffins coach Dan Watson.
“He should be ready, in my opinion,” Watson said during the NHL Prospects Tournament. “He was our best player in the playoffs, and he has the ability to play physical hockey.” The hard-hitting Norwegian may not need Watson’s support because the man making the final roster decision is Detroit’s interim GM Shawn Horcoff.
He was GM of the Griffins team last season. Horcoff appreciates that MBN’s toolbox could be an asset for this Red Wings group.
Plus, Horcoff seems inspired to change the look of this team. Brandsegg-Nygard delivers goals and hits.
The Red Wings are looking for help in both of those categories this season as they try to find a formula that will return them to the playoffs. Last season, the Red Wings were 22nd in scoring in a league where the top 14 scoring teams all made the playoffs.
This season, it would be beneficial if Brandsegg-Nygard could earn a place by in the top six. He could also help by netting 15 goals as a third liner.
In 2025-26, he had 20 goals and 44 points in 60 AHL games. Confidence Grew in Grand Rapids On the first day of training camp, MBN was on a line with Carter Mazur and Nate Danielson.
“He’s got a great shot,” Watson said. “For Michael, it’s going to be be consistent on the IQ side of it, the thinking side of it, the pace side of it.” He seemed a bit overmatched when he played for Detroit early last season.
However, he was much more confident player by the end of the AHL season. It was the right call to send him down.
He needed time to figure out how he needed to play in North America. “ I
