The Detroit Red Wings are buzzing with anticipation, and it's not just about a familiar name. While fans know the Johansson surname from the NHL, another prospect with the same last name is making serious noise—and he could be heading to Detroit sooner than you think.

Anton Johansson, the 21-year-old defenseman currently tearing it up for the Grand Rapids Griffins in the AHL Calder Cup playoffs, is turning heads with a blend of size, grit, and growing offensive flair. Griffins head coach Dan Watson didn't hold back when asked about Johansson's NHL potential: "He's close. He's very close."

At 6-foot-4 and 172 pounds, Johansson brings an intriguing mix of physicality and reach that coaches covet. But it's his rapid development that has scouts and fans alike excited. "His skating will improve, but he sees the ice offensively better than last year," Watson noted. "He's another guy who just wants to get better—willing to put in the work. Those are all characteristics of a guy who wants to and will make the NHL."

Since joining Grand Rapids after his season with Leksand in Sweden, Johansson has slotted into the Griffins' defensive rotation with confidence. His game has an edge—both literally and figuratively. In the opening-round playoff series against Manitoba, he fired 14 shots on goal in just four games. When Moose forward Phil Di Giuseppe took a run at Grand Rapids center Amadeus Lombardi, Johansson was the first to step in and challenge him. That kind of tenacity is exactly what Red Wings fans love to see.

Johansson's growth isn't just physical. He's maturing as a player, and he knows it. "This year in Sweden, I worked really hard on everything," Johansson said. "I feel like it got better and better. I'm more comfortable coming here and playing my game."

For Red Wings fans dreaming of a blue line built on toughness and skill, Anton Johansson might just be the next piece of the puzzle—and he's knocking on the door.