The hype train may have already left the station.

The Czech defenseman was named the Saginaw Spirit’s MVP. He was fourth in the OHL for defensemen scoring. He was also named the team’s best defensemen after finishing the season with the best plus-minus on the team. It’s an absolutely astounding season and one that should make Wings’ fans very happy.

The Wings’ second round pick had 61 points in 59 games which included 47 assists. The amount of defensemen who score above a point per game in the OHL and then make it into the NHL is a very high rate.

He is one of many defensemen in the Wings’ pipeline that are showing some real promise. It’ll be compelling to see how he does in the years ahead. As a right-handed defensemen he is a valuable commodity in this organization. Putting him into a position to succeed is a big, big deal.

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The Spirit missed the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade but a depleted team was able to showcase Hronek. That is a great sight to see. It is important for growth and hopefully seeing increases in scoring will allow his development to take the fast track.

Given the Wings’ season they need reinforcements. Bringing them in too early is going to be a tempting proposition.

[Stats courtesy of Elite Prospects]