Marco Kasper Named 2024-25 Red Wings Rookie of the Year by Detroit Sporty Media…see more…
The Detroit Red Wings have long been known for cultivating top-tier young talent, and this year, Marco Kasper added his name to that legacy. The 20-year-old Austrian center was named the 2024-25 Red Wings Rookie of the Year by Detroit Sporty Media, capping off a breakout NHL campaign that exceeded expectations and electrified fans across the city.
Kasper, drafted eighth overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, made a seamless transition to the league after developing in Sweden and the AHL. Appearing in 78 games this season, he tallied 17 goals and 25 assists, good for 42 points—a solid total for any first-year player, especially one trusted with major responsibilities from the get-go.
“Marco brought a level of maturity and consistency rare for a rookie,” said Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde. “He played crucial minutes and contributed in every area—power play, penalty kill, 5-on-5. He earned his spot and elevated our team.”
From the first puck drop of the season, Kasper made it clear he belonged in the NHL. His high hockey IQ, defensive responsibility, and ability to read plays quickly earned him top-six minutes and a regular role on special teams. By midseason, he was frequently deployed against opponents’ top lines, holding his own with a poise far beyond his years.
“What impressed us most was not just the offensive production,” said a Detroit Sporty Media representative. “It was his two-way game, his ability to play with structure and intensity, and his leadership on and off the ice.”
Kasper finished the season with a +12 plus-minus rating, led all Red Wings rookies in faceoff wins, and ranked among the team leaders in blocked shots by a forward. These stats underscored his effectiveness in the defensive zone and his commitment to team-first hockey.
Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin commented on Kasper’s season, saying, “He’s the kind of player you love to go to battle with. He listens, competes, and adapts. You can tell he’s got the drive to be great.”
Kasper’s journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. Born in Innsbruck, Austria, he moved to Sweden as a teenager to pursue his hockey dream, eventually starring for Rogle BK before coming to North America. His strong work ethic and willingness to learn have been noted at every stage of his career.
Now, with his rookie campaign complete, Kasper becomes the latest in a line of standout young Red Wings to earn recognition, following in the footsteps of Lucas Raymond, Moritz Seider, and others who have become franchise cornerstones. The future in Detroit looks increasingly bright.
“We see Marco as a core piece of our team moving forward,” Lalonde said. “He’s earned the respect of everyone in this room, and he’s only going to get better.”
As the Red Wings continue their rebuild with a mix of youth and veteran leadership, Kasper’s development marks a significant step in their journey back to playoff contention. With more experience and physical development to come, fans in Detroit are eager to watch him grow.
For his part, Kasper remained humble when accepting the award: “It’s a great honor. There are a lot of good young players on this team, and I just try to work hard and help us win. I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited for what’s ahead.”
The 2024-25 season may have been his first, but Marco Kasper has already made a lasting impression in Hockeytown—and he’s just getting started.
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For more updates on the Red Wings and exclusive player interviews, visit www.detroitsportymedia.com or follow @DetroitSporty on social media.
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