Detroit’s Rising Goaltender: Sebastian Cossa
Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman has built one of the deepest prospect pools in the NHL, and Sebastian Cossa is among its crown jewels. The 15th-overall pick in 2021 and a former WHL standout with the Edmonton Oil Kings, Cossa has quickly distinguished himself with size, skill, and poise between the pipes.
Cossa’s junior career was decorated, highlighted by a 71–16–7 record and a gold medal with Team Canada at the 2022 World Junior Championship. After moving to professional hockey, he spent 2022–23 with the Toledo Walleye in the ECHL, posting a 26–16–1 record and earning multiple honors, including Goaltender of the Month in March and selection to the All-Star Classic. He also finished among the finalists for the league’s Goaltender of the Year award, cementing his reputation as a rising star.
The following season saw Cossa take on the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins, Detroit’s affiliate, where he became a workhorse starter. He posted a 22–9–9 record with a 2.41 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage, ranking among the league’s top goaltenders in wins and shutouts. His consistent performance earned him his first NHL appearance, where he came on in relief and secured a win, showcasing his readiness to compete at the highest level.
Cossa’s steady growth has begun to attract attention from other NHL teams. Rumors have circulated linking him to the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers as a potential long-term solution in net. Despite this interest, Detroit remains committed to his development, seeing him as an integral part of their future plans alongside fellow prospect Trey Augustine.
Looking ahead to the 2025–26 season, Cossa enters training camp with momentum. At 6-foot-6 and just 21 years old, he possesses the size, skill, and maturity to push for the NHL backup role and potentially more. With his combination of accolades, work ethic, and professional milestones—including ECHL Goaltender of the Month, All-Star honors, and his first NHL win—Cossa’s trajectory remains upward. Barring a blockbuster trade, he is poised to be a key part of Detroit’s long-term goaltending plans, reflecting both his achievements to date and the promise of his future.