Sports

Red Wings Welcome Another Plante to the Fold in NHL Draft

In a significant moment for the Detroit Red Wings, the organization has extended its ties to the Plante family by selecting winger Victor Plante with their initial second-round pick at the recent NHL Entry Draft. This move brings Victor into the same professional fold as his brother, Max Plante, who also notably entered the league as a 47th overall selection in a prior draft year. The brothers' shared journey into the Red Wings' system creates a compelling narrative, highlighting both individual talent and a remarkable family legacy within professional hockey.

The announcement of Victor Plante's selection by the Red Wings, specifically as the 47th overall pick on Saturday, June 27, 2026, sparked considerable excitement. For Victor, this represents more than just joining an NHL team; it signifies continuing a family tradition within the same esteemed organization as his brother. This unique circumstance will undoubtedly simplify loyalties for their mother, who now has both sons under the Red Wings' banner. The Plante family, with approximately 16 members in attendance at the Buffalo, New York draft event, celebrated the moment with immense pride and enthusiasm.

Victor Plante brings a dynamic presence to the ice, characterized by his high energy and commitment to team success. During his tenure with the Plymouth Township-based U.S. National Team Development Program, he amassed an impressive 48 points, comprising 21 goals and 27 assists, across 57 games. His playing style is focused on contributing to victories and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. Notably, Victor spent the past season living with the family of former Red Wings goaltender Chris Osgood, gaining valuable insights and experiencing the profound hockey culture of Detroit, often referred to as 'Hockeytown.' He expressed deep appreciation for the city's passionate fanbase and rich hockey history.

Looking ahead, all three Plante brothers—Victor, Max (a Hobey Baker award winner), and Zam (a prospect for the Pittsburgh Penguins)—are slated to play together at Minnesota-Duluth in the upcoming season. Victor eagerly anticipates this opportunity to share the ice with his siblings, predicting a formidable team and an exciting season filled with camaraderie and high-level competition.

The Detroit Red Wings' decision to draft Victor Plante not only bolsters their roster with a promising talent but also weaves another chapter into the intriguing story of the Plante family's contribution to professional hockey, particularly within the historic Red Wings organization. This development adds an emotional and personal dimension to the team's future prospects.