Seider welcomes challenge of facing Crosby, Penguins with Red Wings

Seider has accumulated three points (including one goal and two assists) in two games this season, bringing his total to 95 points (consisting of 13 goals and 82 assists) in 167 NHL games. At his current pace, Seider is on track to become the third-fastest active European defenseman to reach the 100-point milestone. He trails behind John Klingberg of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who accomplished it in 145 games, and Erik Karlsson of the Penguins, who achieved it in 168 games. However, Seider is ahead of Rasmus Dahlinof the Buffalo Sabres, who took 180 games to reach the 100-point mark.

Detroit coach Derek Lalonde confidently deploys Seider, a 22-year-old right-shot defenseman, against the NHL’s most potent offensive lines.

“Lalonde stated,”Seider’s ability to elevate his game last year was a significant breakthrough. It is not solely dependent on offense anymore since he has developed a natural instinct for it. When I first started working with him last year, he showed glimpses of trying to force offense, which led to unfavorable situations. Currently, he actively participates in games without contributing points on offense, yet finishes with a plus-2 rating, plays for 24 minutes, and has limited scoring chances against him. I believe this signifies his maturity in this game. He has become an invaluable asset for our team, and we hope he continues to make steady progress.”

Seider’s skills have evolved to the point where he excels in setting a fast pace, efficiently transitioning the puck, and demonstrating proficiency in shot blocking and physical play.

Among defensemen in the NHL, Seider ranks fourth in blocked shots (361) and 16th in hits (363) since his debut.

Seider expressed his thoughts on his playing style, stating, “In my first year, I prioritized delivering big hits, which occasionally resulted in being out of position. However, I have learned to focus on improving my positioning. This allows me to be effective with my stick and contribute offensively immediately. I have noticed that most exceptional defensemen do not rely primarily on physicality, although it can be a valuable tool to intimidate opponents and exert dominance on both ends of the ice. As for shot blocking, it requires the willingness to sacrifice and I take pride in doing so. I believe it has contributed to the growth of our penalty kill unit, and we are determined to elevate our performance in that aspect of the game.”

In Seider’s rookie season, the Detroit Red Wings ranked last among the 32 NHL teams in penalty kill efficiency, with a rate of 73.8 percent. However, they improved to 18th place last season, with a rate of 78.3 percent.

Throughout his three seasons in the NHL, the most valuable lesson Seider has learned is the importance of rest.

He emphasized, “The season is long, and although I always have the desire to be on the ice, practice extensively, and put in extra effort, it is crucial to recognize that rest is a powerful weapon. It should be utilized wisely. Sometimes it is more beneficial to follow a routine of doing an additional 15 minutes of work and then taking a break to relax, which enables me to recharge and be ready for action. The mental grind can be exhausting… that is where I have experienced the most growth.”