Jonathan Berggren, the former Detroit Red Wings forward selected 33rd overall in the 2018 NHL Draft, officially ended his time with Detroit this week after being placed on waivers and claimed by the St. Louis Blues. During the Blues’ second matchup against the New York Rangers at Enterprise Center, Berggren demonstrated the offensive skillset that once made him a promising prospect by scoring against goalie Igor Shesterkin. Despite the Blues falling 2-1 in overtime, Berggren expressed comfort with his new team, praising the skill and camaraderie of his new teammates.
Berggren joined the game alongside fellow ex-Red Wing Pius Suter, who advanced to the top line with Robert Thomas and Pavel Buchnevich. Berggren highlighted the enjoyment he finds in playing with such talented players and his goal to continue performing well. His rookie season with the Red Wings showed promise as he netted 15 goals in 67 games, but he struggled to secure a permanent spot afterward, spending most of the 2023-24 season with the Grand Rapids Griffins. In his last full season with the Red Wings, he contributed 12 goals and 12 assists over 75 games. The Red Wings had re-signed him on a one-year, $1.825 million contract as a restricted free agent last summer.
Fan Take: Jonathan Berggren’s move to the Blues offers him a fresh start and an opportunity to thrive in a new environment, which is exciting for both fans and the league. This transition highlights the unpredictable nature of hockey careers and the chance for players to reinvent themselves, keeping the sport dynamic and engaging.
