Background and Early Career

Born on June 10, 2004, in Stockholm, Sweden, Anton Johansson has been a rising talent in Swedish ice hockey. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing approximately 196 pounds, he is a right-shot defenseman known for his mobility and physical presence on the ice.

Johansson began his professional career with Leksands IF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) during the 2021-22 season, making four appearances without registering a point. He also contributed to Leksands’ junior teams, recording six goals and four assists in 22 games for the J20 team and seven goals with 15 assists in 27 games for the J18 team.

Draft and Development

The Detroit Red Wings selected Johansson in the fourth round, 105th overall, of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. Post-draft, he continued his development with Leksands IF. In the 2022-23 season, Johansson played 21 SHL games, scoring his first professional goal. He also participated in the 2024 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, representing Sweden and securing a silver medal.

Red Wings assistant general manager Nicklas Lidstrom has observed Johansson’s progress, noting that he has become more stable in his play.

Recent Performance

In the 2023-24 SHL season, Johansson’s role with Leksands IF expanded significantly. He appeared in 46 regular-season games, tallying three goals and five assists. During the playoffs, he added two goals and two assists over seven games, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively in high-pressure situations.

Johansson’s performance at the World Junior Summer Showcase further highlighted his development. He recorded two goals and one assist over three games, showcasing his offensive capabilities and solidifying his status as a promising defensive prospect for the Red Wings.

Contract Details and Future Outlook

Johansson’s three-year, entry-level contract with the Red Wings is set to begin in the 2025-26 season. This timing allows him to continue his development in North America, starting with the Grand Rapids Griffins on an amateur tryout agreement for the remainder of the current season.

The Red Wings’ decision to bring Johansson into their system aligns with their strategy of developing young talent to bolster their defensive lineup. His size, mobility, and offensive instincts make him a valuable asset as the team looks to build a competitive roster for the future.

As Johansson transitions to the North American style of play, his performance with the Griffins will be closely monitored. Success in the AHL could pave the way for an NHL debut, potentially as early as the 2025-26 season when his entry-level contract officially begins.

In summary, the Red Wings’ signing of Anton Johansson reflects their commitment to nurturing promising talent within their organization. Johansson’s progression through the Swedish leagues and international play indicates a player with significant potential, and his upcoming tenure with the Griffins will be a critical step in his journey toward becoming an impactful NHL defenseman.