Danielson’s 2025-26 campaign told two very different stories. His NHL stint – 28 games, two goals, five assists, averaging roughly 10 minutes a night – was largely forgettable, the ninth overall pick too often on the wrong side of the puck and unable to drive play at the level required. A return to Grand Rapids reignited his offense, with 15 points in 18 AHL games before a lower body injury ended his year. Detroit’s lack of depth at centre means the door is open, and a potential Larkin trade would create more meaningful minutes than Danielson has seen so far. He enters camp with a clear opportunity to earn a sustained NHL role. The tools are not in question – smooth skating, a strong transition game, and real two-way ability. Whether he can perform at NHL pace consistently is the only outstanding question.

Danielson had a solid rookie campaign in the AHL as a 20-year-old. Suiting up with the Grand Rapids Griffins for the first time, he scored 12 goals and added 27 assists over 71 games. Worth noting about his performance was that the rookie put up 13 of those 39 points on special teams (nine power play and four shorthanded points), while also seeing 18 primary assists to eight secondary assists. It is, of course, only one season, so a small sample size should be considered, but when weighed against the fact that he was a young rookie playing his first professional season, that kind of driving is very exciting to see. Couple that with the fact he went out on a heater with seven points in nine games in April, one might be wise to pick Nate Danielson up to see if he continues this production, if the current manager in your league is sleeping on him.

Danielson has provided a notable scoring touch in the WHL since he was a double underager, but his progression on the scoresheet has been marginal since. Although a mid-season trade to a strong Portland team boosted his production, he has still not exactly scored lights out at the junior level. The former ninth-overall pick already has NHL-ready passing and backchecking skills and is well-known for his leadership skills and intangibles. He packs a punch in all three zones and is a capable puck carrier in transition. His offensive ceiling at the NHL remains an open question, but his approach suits the pro game, and his skill set should translate smoothly. He will be making noise in the Wings’ middle six before too much longer.

The Red Wings signed first round pick Danielson to a three year entry level deal. The 9th overall pick in the 2023 draft led his team in scoring with 33 goals and 45 assists in his third season playing for the Brandon Wheat Kings of the WHL. He also served as the team’s captain. “I think just that I’m a well-rounded player,” Danielson admitted. “I play well in all areas of the rink. Offensively very skilled, defensively I’m responsible. I think just that all-around game was a big part of it.”

The smooth skating center plays a complete 200 foot game and his compete level is top notch. He is not flashy but consistent, and is a great transition player due to his long stride and reach. Danielson most likely play one more season for the Wheat Kings before heading to Grand Rapids in the AHL. He has moderate offensive upside and it would not shock me if he becomes a second to third line center with the team in three to four years. Danielson is most certainly worth a roster spot in most dynasty leagues.