The 2018 NHL Entry Draft was a pivotal moment for the Detroit Red Wings, representing a chance to inject new life into their prospect pool and accelerate their rebuild. With four picks in the top 40, including the sixth overall selection, the Red Wings, under then-General Manager Ken Holland, aimed to lay the foundation for a future playoff contender. However, as the 2025-26 season approaches, it's clear that the 2018 draft has largely fallen short of expectations, setting back the Red Wings' rebuild.

The Red Wings' first two selections in 2018 were winger Filip Zadina (6th overall) and center Joe Veleno (30th overall). Zadina, lauded for his scoring potential, and Veleno, projected as a reliable two-way center, were expected to become cornerstones of the team. However, neither player lived up to their potential in Detroit. Zadina struggled to translate his junior success to the NHL level, and Veleno, after a brief stint with the team, was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks. The return for Veleno was Craig Smith and Petr Mrazek, a disappointing return for a former first-round pick.

Of the ten players drafted by Detroit in 2018, only one remains with the organization: Jonatan Berggren. Selected 33rd overall, Berggren has shown flashes of offensive ability but has yet to establish himself as a consistent top-six forward. In 154 career NHL games, Berggren has recorded 29 goals and 58 points. While he has produced at a higher rate than Veleno, his role remains limited.

The underperformance of the 2018 draft class has undoubtedly hindered the Red Wings' rebuild. Failing to capitalize on premium picks like Zadina and Veleno can set an organization back significantly. The Red Wings have since made strides in replenishing their prospect pool through subsequent drafts, selecting players like Moritz Seider, Simon Edvinsson, and Sebastian Cossa. However, the 2018 draft remains a missed opportunity.

Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, the Red Wings have a promising group of prospects who could make an impact. Goaltender Sebastian Cossa is nearing NHL readiness, while forward Nate Danielson is aiming for a breakout campaign with the Grand Rapids Griffins. Defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka is another prospect who could see NHL action in the upcoming season. Recent draft picks such as Carter Bear and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard also hold promise for the future.

While the 2018 draft is a source of regret, the Red Wings have learned from their mistakes and are building a strong foundation for future success. The organization's focus on developing young talent and building through the draft remains the path forward.