A family’s hockey legacy takes a new turn
The Detroit Red Wings made a notable selection in the 2026 NHL Draft, choosing forward Victor Plante with the 47th overall pick. The 18‑year‑old, who registered 48 points for the U.S. National U18 Team during the 2025‑26 season, will begin his collegiate career at the University of Minnesota‑Duluth this fall.
Victor’s older brother Max Plante was also taken by the Red Wings in a previous draft, and the two siblings now share the same organization’s developmental pathway. Both have been spotted at the BELFOR Training Center inside Little Caesars Arena, where the team’s Director of Player Development, Dan Cleary, observed their progress.
Cleary, a Stanley Cup champion with Detroit, noted that Victor’s style of play mirrors that of his brother, describing him as a competitive, feedback‑eager prospect who embraces criticism as a tool for growth.
Another brother, Zam Plante, was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2022 and will also suit up for Minnesota‑Duluth. The three Plante brothers, each carving out a niche in the sport, illustrate a generational commitment to excellence.
The upcoming season promises to showcase the Plante family’s talent on a national stage, as they navigate college competition while remaining under the watchful eye of the Red Wings’ development staff.