The Red Wings surprised many in 2004 making Johan Franzen their first pick in the draft that year. Detroit had to wait until the 97th overall pick after trading away their first two picks in trade deadline deals. At the time of the draft, Franzen was 24 years-old and had been passed over in multiple drafts causing some to question the selection.



Hakan Andersson, the Red Wings top European scout, pushed for Franzen because of his size and defensive game. When Detroit picked him, they projected the 6-foot-3, 220-pound winger as a defensive player who could fill out their bottom two lines. Never in their wildest dreams did the scouting staff believe that “the Mule”, as he was dubbed by Steve Yzerman, would develop into a power forward with outstanding scoring ability around the net.

A classic late bloomer, the big Swede has been one of the Red Wings most consistent playoff performers. In 75 playoff games he has racked up an amazing 35 goals and 69 points. Franzen nearly won the Conn Smythe trophy in 2008 which is awarded to the playoff MVP, but was sidelined for a handful of games with a blood clot in his head.

After suffering a knee injury last season that sidelined him for much of the season, Franzen looks to be heating up again and is providing a huge offensive boost. The 31-year-old forward is now the Red Wings leading scorer this season with 26 goals and he currently sits 5th in the NHL scoring race. Franzen has come a long way since June of 2004…