The Detroit Red Wings made a strategic decision to trade up and draft goaltender Sebastian Cossa with the 15th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, demonstrating their dedication to securing a strong future in net. Cossa, the highest-drafted goalie for the Red Wings since 1973, has exhibited impressive talent early in his career and is quickly becoming a vital component of Detroit’s long-term vision.
Cossa’s dominant tenure in the WHL began with the Edmonton Oil Kings. During his standout rookie season in 2019-2020, he garnered attention from the NHL by achieving a 21-6-2 record, a commendable 2.23 goals-against average (GAA), and a .921 save percentage over 33 games. He maintained this impressive performance in the subsequent season, boasting a stunning 17-1-1 record in just 19 games, with a 1.57 GAA and .941 save percentage that positioned him among the most promising young goaltenders in junior hockey. Additionally, Cossa represented Canada at the World Junior Championships, gaining valuable international experience that bolstered his standing as a top prospect.
Transitioning to professional hockey, Cossa played with both the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins and the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye. In his inaugural ECHL season, he played 46 games, achieving a respectable 2.56 GAA and .913 save percentage as he acclimated to the professional level. Overcoming the typical challenges faced by emerging goalies, Cossa displayed his potential throughout the process.
In the AHL, Cossa has shown steady progress, playing 40 games with Grand Rapids during the 2022-2023 season, where he recorded a 2.41 GAA and a .913 save percentage, demonstrating his growing ability to adapt to the demands of professional hockey.
His promising start to the 2024-2025 season has been particularly encouraging; in his first two games, he has saved 64 of 68 shots, achieving a .941 save percentage and solidifying his position as a contender for Detroit’s future goaltending role. At just 21, his trajectory suggests he may soon be vying for a spot on the NHL roster.
Cossa represents hope for the Red Wings, who have long grappled with instability in net. Although Cam Talbot currently serves as the starting goalie, he is aging, and Ville Husso’s future remains uncertain after being waived by the team. Thus, Cossa’s ongoing development in the AHL is critical.
As he hones his skills with increased starting opportunities in Grand Rapids, the Red Wings will undoubtedly be monitoring his progress. Fans can anticipate a bright future for Cossa as he continues to mature within the organization.
In summary, Cossa’s rapid rise through the Red Wings’ system highlights his potential to become the franchise’s next premier goaltender. As the team rebuilds, Cossa is poised to emerge as a pivotal player in their quest for contention, illustrating his skill, dedication, and promise as Detroit’s future goaltender.
