Red Wings rookie Albert Johansson makes his feelings known about scoring debut goal in team's sixth straight win

The Detroit Red Wings won their sixth straight game, beating the Chicago Blackhawks 5-3 at Little Caesars Arena on Friday night. Rookie defenseman Albert Johansson scored his first NHL goal during the game at 7:07 of the third period.

Johansson received a cross-crease pass from Lucas Raymond. Marco Kasper got the secondary assist as Johansson’s goal helped the Red Wings extend their lead to 4-1 in the game.

Speaking to the media after the game, Johansson said he will always remember it.

“I will remember that one forever,” Johansson said. “Unreal pass by Lucas, so I got to say thank you to him.”

Coach Todd McLellan praised Johansson for his instincts and growth.

“Anytime a young man scores his first goal in the League, everybody is so excited. Bench, trainers, coaches, and certainly Albert." McLellan said (via NHL). "We’re really excited. Over above the goal itself, he had really good instincts to go to that hole, but I just think he’s been playing better, what, nine periods now? Every period has got better for him."

Raymond spoke about Johansson’s milestone, saying:

“It’s special. Everyone is extremely happy for him. It’s a special moment and a big accomplishment, so it’s fun to see.”

Johansson admitted his rookie season had a slow start but said he was improving.

“Maybe a little bit of a slow start, but I’m just trying to work hard," Johansson said. "Since Todd came in here, I’ve been playing with Simon. I know Simon really good since GR, so I think kept our chemistry from GR into here. Last couple of games have been good and real fun.”

Albert Johansson and Red Wings win against Blackhawks, making his debut goal extra special

The game began with Detroit taking the lead, as Alex DeBrincat scored at 4:26 of the first period. The Blackhawks tied the game at 10:56 with a goal from Ryan Donato. Detroit regained the lead in the second period. Lucas Raymond scored 41 seconds into the period, assisted by DeBrincat and Patrick Kane.

Andrew Copp made it 3-1 with a goal early in the third. Johansson scored his first NHL goal just 2:07 later, putting Detroit up 4-1.

The Blackhawks fought back, with Teuvo Teravainen scoring twice to make it 4-3. However, Marco Kasper sealed the win with an empty-net goal. The Red Wings will try for their seventh straight win when they play the Seattle Kraken on Sunday.