Category: International Profiles

NHL Prospect Profile: Anton Lundell

With the 2020 NHL Draft approaching, Anton Lundell of HIFK continues to establish himself as one of the top prospects eligible for selection. A crafty centre who plays a responsible game, Lundell could be made a top-five pick come the 2020 NHL Draft.

– Anton Lundell –

HIFK (Liiga) | C/LW | 2020 NHL Draft Eligible

Espoo, Finland | 6-foot-1, 185-pounds | October 3rd, 2001

Unquestionably the top Finnish-born prospect eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft, Anton Lundell is a versatile centre-man who can do seemingly everything well each and every time he takes to the ice. With great size, Lundell is a force who is hard to handle in the offensive zone — moreover, he plays a responsible two-way game and can be counted upon to produce or defend regardless of the situation on the ice.

However, at the end of the day Lundell’s calling card is his offensive prowess, as the native of Espoo, Finland features lightning-quick hands, impeccable vision and an extremely high level of on-ice intelligence and awareness. Whether he be attacking on the rush or anchored in front of his opposition’s goal, Lundell has the skill set necessary to excel in multiple situations and, as a result, stands as one of the top prospects eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft.

With this being said, let’s take a more refined look at Lundell’s numerous strengths on the ice.

Strengths:

  • Skating Speed and Acceleration
  • Shot Release and Velocity
  • Offensive Awareness and Intelligence
  • Vision and Playmaking Ability
  • Strength, Stability, and Positioning

The foundation of Lundell’s game — like many great players — is his ability to navigate the ice with both purpose and confidence. When leading an offensive rush, Lundell displays his steady and fluid stride — one which allows him to create and maintain a high-level of speed with little issue. Further, Lundell is remarkably strong on his skates and difficult to knock off of the puck, a reality which allows Lundell to drive puck possession for his team. Since he is so fast, agile, and strong on his skates, Lundell has little issue creating time and space for himself and comes to stand as a lethal offensive threat as a direct result.

If opposing defenders afford Lundell with too much time and space in the attacking zone, he will routinely find an open shooting lane before unleashing his deceptive on goal. Defined by its unique release, Lundell’s shot is extremely difficult for opposing goaltenders to read and often finds the back of the net before they can read it’s direction and speed. However, if pressured, Lundell also features the vision and offensive awareness necessary to fire crisp and creative passes to his fellow teammates in high percentage scoring situations.

Areas of Improvement:

  • First Step Acceleration
  • Offensive Versatility

In terms of areas in need of improvement within Lundell’s game, there aren’t many. So, if we were to nitpick, we’d identify Lundell’s first step acceleration as well as his offensive versatility as two areas that are strong yet could be improved in the years ahead.

While his acceleration is strong, Lundell would do well to become a more explosive skater who can turn around and disorient his defenders in all three zones of the ice. As Lundell continues to mature physically this skill will surely develop, and so too will Lundell’s offensive versatility. In the future, we’d like to see Lundell fully utilize his skating abilities, strength, and instincts to become a player who can drive the puck wide and hard to the goal on the rush — if able to do so, Lundell could stand as a combination of Aleksander Barkov and Sebastian Aho at the NHL-level.

Future Projection:

In short, Lundell is a decisive offensive player who can also play a responsible 200-foot game. Not afraid to park himself in front of his opponent’s and ever creative, it’s rather easy to see why Lundell is skating and producing at the Liiga-level in the season preceding his first NHL Draft. If he can continue to produce offensively at the Liiga-level throughout the 2019-20 season, Lundell will unquestionably be selected within the top-10 overall come the 2020 NHL Draft, if not higher.

In the years ahead, Lundell boasts the skill set and intelligence level necessary to become a first line player at the NHL-level. Lethal offensively and reliable in all three zones of the ice, Lundell has the tools to become a modern-day NHL star.

NHL Prospect Profile: Alexander Holtz

Alexander Holtz of the SHL’s Djurgårdens IF is a deadly goal-scoring machine eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft. A versatile threat and incredibly passionate prospect, Holtz could be chosen within the top-five overall come the NHL Draft in June.

– Alexander Holtz –

Djurgårdens IF (SHL) | LW/RW | 2020 NHL Draft Eligible

Saltsjö-Boo, Sweden | 6-foot, 185lbs | Jan. 23rd, 2002

The upcoming 2020 NHL Entry Draft will be well-represented by Sweden, as Alexander Holtz and Lucas Raymond stand as two of the top prospects eligible for selection by patiently waiting NHL organizations. While Raymond is widely regarded as a pass-first style of player, Holtz has come to be defined by his ability to blast the puck into the back of the net and has proven his ability to do such with remarkable consistency in league play as well as on the international stage.

In fact, during the 2018-19 season alone, Holtz recorded a whopping 11 goals and 23 points in 18 games of international competition for Sweden. Further, he added 30 goals and 47 points with Djurgårdens IF J20 at the SuperElit level in just 38 games played — a rate of offensive production which led directly to Holtz’s promotion to the SHL to kick-start his 2019-20 season.

Strengths:

  • Skating Speed
  • Shot Release and Velocity
  • Puck Handling Abilities
  • On-Ice Vision and Playmaking Sense

When it comes to Holtz’s strengths, there are many. First and foremost there is Holtz’s skating speed — an ability which stands as the foundation of his game. Capable of eluding his defenders with relative ease, Holtz features the straight-line speed necessary to force his opposition onto their heels and can create a great deal of time and space for himself in the process. What’s more is that Holtz isn’t afraid to drive hard to the net — he can combine his speed and growing agility to change directions and discombobulate his defenders.

Having flown into the attacking zone, it is quite common to see Holtz unleash his sizzling shot — an ability which makes him one of the top goal-scorers eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft. Defined by its Auston Matthews-like release, Holtz’s shot has the accuracy and velocity necessary to beat opposing goaltenders cleanly with impressive consistency. In addition to his lethal wrist-shot, Holtz also boasts an impressive slapper and the unique ability to score goals on one-timers taken from a distance.

However, Holtz is more than just a goal-scorer, as the youngster features incredible puck-handling abilities and the on-ice vision necessary to create and implement high-quality scoring chances in combination with his teammates. What’s more is that Holtz features a tremendous feel for the game — an innate ability which allows him to sense the positioning of his teammates or slide into open ice in order to receive the puck and fire it on-goal. It is these abilities which allow Holtz to stand as a dynamic and versatile two-threat capable of producing offence in a wide variety of forms.

Weaknesses:

  • Skating Agility and Acceleration

Given Holtz’s projection as a likely top-five talent in the 2020 NHL Draft, it should come as no surprise to learn that there are a slim few areas in need of improvement with respect his game.

The most notable of which, however, is surely Holtz’s skating acceleration as well as his agility while moving at top speed. Although he features high-end speed and the ability to create separation between himself and his opposition, Holtz boasts average acceleration and can therefore be caught by defenders if he receives the puck from a standstill. Moreover, once he has reached top speed, Holtz’s agility is fairly average — while he can change direction while maintaining his speed fairly well, Holtz is slightly predictable in doing so and can be thwarted somewhat easily at times.

Now, this not to say that Holtz is a poor skater by any means, but rather that room for improvement does exist within this particular facet of his game — especially so if he wishes to enjoy a seamless transition to the NHL-level in the near future.

Future Potential:

At the end of the day, Holtz is a high-end talent eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft and arguably its most lethal goal-scorer. Capable of traversing the ice with relative ease and decisive in his ability to do so, Holtz places overwhelming pressure on opposing defenders and stands as an unpredictable threat owing to his ability to shoot and pass the puck with absolute authority.

While room for improvement does exist within his game, Holtz should be able to eliminate any deficiencies with ease as he continues to strengthen his already intimidating frame. In short, Holtz is an excellent offensive player who should develop into a persistent threat at the NHL-level in little to no time whatsoever. Once his skating matches his puck-handling skills and shot, he should grow into a top-six forward with little issue.

NHL Prospect Profile: Lucas Raymond

Lucas Raymond of the SHL’s Frolunda HC is one of the most talented players eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft. A lethal playmaker and confident goal scorer, it’s easy to see why Raymond is regarded as a top prospect throughout the hockey world. Read his full profile, here.

– Lucas Raymond –

Frölunda HC (SHL) | Right Wing | 2020 NHL Draft Eligible

Göteborg, Sweden | 5-foot-11, 170lbs | Mar. 28th, 2002

The 2020 NHL Entry Draft is loaded with players of elite talent, however, arguably none are more capable than Lucas Raymond — a Swedish winger defined by his elusive nature and unparalleled offensive abilities. Regardless of the situation or score, Raymond is as dangerous as they come — routinely dangling his way through opposing defenders before dishing the puck to a teammate or concluding the play himself.

– Related: 2020 NHL Draft Player Profiles –

Raymond is so lethal, in fact, that he is skating for Frölunda HC at the SHL-level in 2019-20 as a 17-year-old. Slated to turn 18 years-of-age in March of 2020, Raymond was one of just three players under the age of 18 to begin the current campaign at the SHL-level — joining fellow Swedish prospects Alexander Holtz and Lucas Ramberg in doing so. With this being said, it should come as no surprise to learn that Raymond has been routinely discussed as a top-five prospect eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft, he is simply that good.

Strengths:

  • Offensive Creativity
  • On-Ice Vision and Playmaking Abilities
  • Skating Speed and Agility
  • Shot Release

When it comes to Raymond’s strengths, there are plenty. Above all else, however, is Raymond’s raw creativity when in possession of the puck. Completely unpredictable and willing to take risks in order to generate scoring opportunities, Raymond can execute high-risk passes with relative ease and is more than willing to experiment new plays on the fly and regardless of the on-ice situation. Yet, with this being said, every risk which Raymond takes is calculated.

This innate creativity leads directly to a wealth of offensive opportunities for Raymond and his team, as the native of Göteborg, Sweden is a pass-first player who consistently improves the play of those around him. Of stellar vision, Raymond has no trouble identifying players in his peripherals and can hit teammates with passes they — let alone Raymond’s opponents — weren’t expecting.

 

However, Raymond is far more than an elite playmaker, as the youngster has the ability to score goals too. This offensive versatility is driven by Raymond’s skating, as he features great foot speed and the agility required to change directions in a split second while retaining a high rate of speed. When combined with his elite puck-handling abilities, Raymond stands as a truly unpredictable offensive force capable of generating offence by any means necessary.

Weaknesses:

  • General Strength and Skating Stability
  • Shot Velocity

There’s a reason why Raymond is perceived as a top-five talent eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft — there aren’t any significant areas of weakness present within his game. In the years ahead, however, Raymond would do well to continue adding greater strength to his 5-foot-11 frame.

– Related: 2020 NHL Draft Rankings –

While his strength will surely increase with age, more muscle will aid Raymond’s ability to protect the puck as well as the velocity of his shot. While accurate and defined by its quick release, greater power will allow Raymond’s shot to consistently bulge the twine once he reaches the NHL-level.

Future Potential:

Once in the midst of his NHL career, Raymond will undoubtedly stand as a first-line winger capable of sustaining his team’s offensive attack on a nightly basis. Incredibly shifty and remarkably diverse, Raymond will come to pick apart opposing defenders at the NHL-level while rounding into a strong two-way player in the process. Come the 2020 NHL Draft, expect Raymond to be chosen within the first five picks — he could be nabbed as high as second overall in our opinion.

All in all, a devastating and consistent offensive force who will command attention at the NHL-level for years to come.

NHL Prospect Profile: Vladislav Kolyachonok

Vladislav Kolyachonok of the OHL’s Flint Firebirds is a lethal two-way defenceman eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft. A native of Belarus, Kolyachonok could be chosen in the first round owing to his combined natural offensive instincts and impressive size.

– Vladislav Kolyachonok –

Flint Firebirds (OHL) | Defence| 2019 NHL Draft Eligible

Minsk, Belarus| May 26th, 2001 | 6-foot-2, 185-pounds

The 2018-19 OHL campaign was an extremely trying one for the Flint Firebirds, who struggled mightily out of the gate and were never able to turn their season around. However, there were rays of hope throughout the season, as a number of Firebirds players began to establish themselves as capable contributors in spite of the team’s struggles.

Of the lot, perhaps the most impressive of which is 2019 NHL Draft eligible defenceman Vladislav Kolyachonok. A natural two-way defender, Kolyachonok’s speed and offensive instincts shine bright on a game-by-game basis, while his ability to adapt under pressure while remaining confident speaks wonders with regards to his potential at the next-level.

With a stellar rookie OHL campaign in-hand, Kolyachonok will enter the 2019 NHL Draft as a potential first-round selection.

Strengths:

  • Skating Speed and Agility
  • Confidence in Possession
  • Offensive Instincts
  • Play Processing

As mentioned above, Kolyachonok is an impressive skater who utilizes his explosive speed and ample agility in order to rush the puck up ice or smother attackers within his defensive zone. Once in possession of the puck is when Kolyachonok’s skating shines the brightest, as the native of Minsk, Belarus can blow past opposing players and his endlessly confident in his ability to do so.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Rankings

This confidence while in possession of the puck is one of Kolyachonok’s greatest qualities, as it allows the youngster to secure breakouts and transport the puck with an impressive level of consistency. Amplified by Kolyachonok’s puck confidence is the youngster’s offensive capabilities and instincts, as an unparalleled trust in his abilities allows Kolyachonok to play a devastating role in the attacking zone — whether it be from the blue line or below the goal line.

This ability to dominate the offensive zone has an immense influence on Kolyachonok’s approach defensively. While he is a sturdy defender of ample ability who plays well within his own zone, Kolyachonok loves to possess the puck and will not hesitate to skate the puck out of trouble rather than simply clear it off of the glass — an ability which drives possession and offensive opportunities for his team.

Areas of Improvement:

  • Defensive Positioning
  • Physicality

Although Kolyachonok’s skating abilities and confidence with the puck stand as two of the youngster’s most impressive traits, they can — at times — lead to significant defensive lapses. Owing to his natural offensive instincts and drive, Kolyachonok can be caught out of position at times due to his attempts to single-handedly generate scoring chances.

In the years ahead, Kolyachonok will do well to solidify his own zone before attempting to utilize his unique skill set at the opposite end of the ice. One able to do so effectively and with consistency, Kolyachonok will become a truly lethal two-way defender — the mould of defenceman widely sought after by NHL organizations.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Profiles

In order to immediately improve his defensive game, Kolyachonok would do well to utilize his physicality on a more regular basis. Standing 6-foot-2 and 185-pounds, Kolyachonok features stellar size yet isn’t always willing to use it in order to separate his opponents from the puck.

Future Potential:

Come the 2019 NHL Draft, Kolyachonok may very well be chosen within the top-31 overall owing to his natural offensive instincts and rangy defensive play.

Sure, there is a great deal of room for improvement within Kolyachonok’s game, however, the youngster’s raw skill set is simply undeniable and will be of immense potential once further polished. Although he will likely prove to be a long-term project not ready for NHL action until at least the 2021-22 campaign, Kolyachonok is an intriguing prospect who could ascend much sooner if able to adapt to the North American professional-level.

NHL Prospect Profile: Nils Höglander

Nils Höglander of the SHL’s Rogle BK is a vastly underrated prospect eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft. Shifty and skilled, Höglander’s tenacious game is eerily similar to that of Boston Bruins star Brad Marchand.

– Nils Höglander –

Rögle BK | Left-Wing | 2019 NHL Draft Eligible

Bockträsk, Sweden | December 20th, 2000 | 5-foot-9, 185-pounds

Although he began the 2018-19 season as a relative unknown, Nils Höglander has quickly established himself as a premier prospect eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft.

Despite his small stature, Höglander plays a fearless game and has come to be well-known for his break-neck speed and lethal offensive capabilities. Extremely shifty and endlessly dynamic, Höglander plays the game with a ton of heart and strives to drive his team’s on ice success.

While there is certainly room for improvement within Höglander’s game, the youngster’s proven play with Rogle BK of the Swedish Hockey League as a 17-year-old this season speaks volumes with regards to his future potential at the NHL-level.

Strengths:

  • Skating Ability
  • Puck Skills
  • Physicality
  • Tenacity

Stellar skating and superb puck skills have come to define Höglander’s impressive and growing game, as the native of Bockträsk, Sweden is as potent as they come. Capable of darting throughout the ice with speed and purpose, Höglander can navigate all three zones of the ice extremely well and features undeniable breakaway speed.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Rankings

If afforded with ample time and space — a luxury which he himself often creates — Höglander’s lightning-quick hands and brisk release make him a devastating offensive threat. Known for his willingness to dangle opposing defenders en route to the goal, Höglander is wildly creative and will devise high-percentage scoring chances through sheer will and imagination alone.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Prospect Profiles

Amplifying Höglander’s impressive offensive skill set is his determination to make a positive impact in all aspects of the game. Not only a skillful scorer and playmaker, Höglander loves to throw his weight around and dish out bone-rattling bodychecks to his opposition. Although regularly one of the smallest players on the ice, Höglander’s fearless nature and determination to succeed have the ability to inject energy and enthusiasm into his fellow teammates.

Weaknesses:

  • Skating Balance
  • Puck Protection

Given Höglander’s lack of stature, maintaining his balance while on his skates and protecting the puck pose a natural challenge — and especially so given the stern competition he faces on a game-by-game basis in the SHL. Although a smooth and polished skater, Höglander can be forced off of the puck by opponents who own a significant physical advantage.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft International Prospect Profiles

Fortunately for Höglander, he is well aware of these areas of weakness and is working hard to improve both aspects of his game. A persistent presence in the gym and learning how to shield the puck while at top speed, Höglander could develop into a prospect similar in playing style to Brad Marchand of the Boston Bruins in the coming years.

Future Potential:

In the long-term, Höglander projects to become a devastating yet versatile top-six forward at the NHL-level. Although he would benefit greatly from playing time in the American Hockey League before ascending to the NHL, Höglander’s impressive experience at the SHL-level will do wonders for his personal progression in the immediate future.

Sure, Höglander’s size could be a detracting factor for NHL organizations come the 2019 NHL Draft. However, as we have seen of late, players of smaller stature and lethal skill have come to command a growing place within today’s NHL, and deservedly so given their ability to dictate offensive play.

Ultimately, if able to refine his game while adding greater overall strength to his frame, Höglander could prove to be a hidden gem within the 2019 NHL Draft class and a likely first-round selection.

NHL Prospect Profile: Albin Grewe

The NHL franchise which selects Albin Grewe will have stolen a sensational prospect in the 2019 NHL Draft. Sturdy on his skates and of immense skill, Grewe plays a competitive game and is as dynamic as they come — a reality easily overlooked given his development within Sweden’s SuperElit league.

– Albin Grewe –

Djurgardens IF | Right-Wing | 2019 NHL Draft Eligible

Marsta, Sweden | March 22, 2001 | 6-feet, 190-pounds

The 2019 NHL Draft is flush with highly talented European prospects, and one of the most promising of which is right-winger Albin Grewe. 

Boasting size, skill, and grit, Grewe plays a competitive two-way game and has already skated in Swedish Hockey League games at the age of just 17-years. With a physical edge over the majority of his competition and high-end skill to boot, Grewe is devastating on the power play and can produce relatively consistently at even-strength as well. 

Although projected by many to be made a late first to early second-round choice in the coming NHL Draft, Grewe is a prospect who could very easily rise into the top-31 if able to enjoy a stellar season of play in 2018-19. 

Strengths:

  • Competitiveness 
  • On-Ice Vision
  • Shot Release
  • Creativity

As mentioned above, Grewe is one of the 2019 NHL Draft class’s most competitive players.

Not one to take a shift off and determined in his pursuit of the puck, Grewe is driven to generate offensive opportunities for his team each and every time he takes to the ice. A hard-nosed player below the goal line and not afraid to drive hard to the net, Grewe is willing to tackle the dirty areas of the ice in order to produce and isn’t intimidated by his competition regardless of their physicality or skill. 

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Rankings

Being founded upon this extremely competitive nature affords Grewe with a great deal of confidence and creativity while in possession of the puck. While he will carry the puck to the net and stands as a versatile and playmaking force, Grewe will also attempt to complete high-risk, high-danger passes to his teammates which often result in excellent chances if not scoring plays. 

Adding to Grewe’s already impressive skill-set is his lethal shot — heavy and accurate, Grewe loves to shoot the puck and can fire it on net in a variety of ways. Whether it be a quick one-timer from the slot or a well-placed wrister from the half-wall, Grewe can pound the puck on goal and features a lightning-quick release which affords opposing goaltenders with little margin for error.

Related: 2019 NHL Prospect Profiles 

Absolutely dynamic on the power play and a persistent threat at even-strength, Grewe is a lethal scoring winger who brings a great deal to the table other than his volatility. Although his game could use some polish, Grewe’s skill set as well as his potential as an NHL prospect are undeniable. 

Areas of Improvement:

  • Mobility
  • Puck Control

Despite his impressive and continually improving game, Grewe would do well to improve two particular aspects of his game. 

Firstly, there is Grewe’s mobility. While he is a competent skater, Grewe would prove to be a far more unpredictable player if able to improve his mobility as well as agility on the ice. If able to traverse the ice with greater ease and purpose, Grewe would keep his opponents guessing and his defenders on their heels given his suddenly evasive and shifty nature. Now, this isn’t to say that Grewe is a poor skater by any means, but rather that room for improvement in does exist. 

Secondly, there is Grewe’s puck control — a facet of his game which is strong yet could use additional polish this season. Although an exceptional playmaker and two-way threat, improving his puck control would afford Grewe with even greater poise, confidence, and creativity while in possession of the puck.

Ultimately, Grewe’s game is incredibly strong and sound — there’s a reason why he could be made a first round selection come the 2019 NHL Draft. 

Future Potential:

In the years ahead, expect Grewe to grow and develop into a top-six player at the NHL-level. 

Although he could be chosen much later than anticipated in the 2019 NHL Draft, the franchise which selects Grewe will have secured if not stolen a dynamic offensive player capable of competing with both consistency and determination. Wildly creative and remarkably consistent, Grewe is a solid prospect who has long been overlooked as an NHL prospect — and wrongfully so. 

In short, don’t be surprised if Grewe sky-rockets up the selection board come draft day. 

Marco Rossi: The OHL’s Amazing Austrian

Marco Rossi is a smooth-skating Austrian forward destined for stardom. A rookie with the OHL’s Ottawa 67’s, Rossi has quickly established himself as an elite offensive force and top prospect eligible for the 2020 NHL Draft.

He may not be eligible until the 2020 NHL Draft, however, forward Marco Rossi of the Ontario Hockey League’s Ottawa 67’s has been quick to state his case as an elite NHL prospect.

A native of Feldkirch, Austria, the 2018-19 hockey season will mark Rossi’s first campaign in North America. Selected by the 67’s in the first round of the 2018 CHL Import Draft, Rossi had long stood as a dynamic offensive player and was undoubtedly ready to take his talents to the next level along his developmental route.

With professional playing experience in-hand alongside a versatile yet lethal skill-set, Rossi is quickly proving to be an industrious player capable of dominating his older and more physically mature competition with remarkable consistency. As one of the OHL’s unheralded rookie stars, Rossi could force aside Quinton Byfield and Cole Perfetti en route to securing the Emms Family Award as the league’s rookie of the year — Rossi is simply that good.

Rossi’s Road to the Show

As mentioned, Rossi was born in the city of Feldkirch — a relatively small medieval town which lays on the border of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

As Rossi grew older and his on-ice abilities continued to flourish, the youngster competed for a variety of different Austrian-based minor hockey teams. Although the age and skill-level of his competition varied greatly over the years, one fact remained: regardless of his foes, Rossi was capable of dominating each and every game he competed within.

Outside of his league play and before his arrival in North America, Rossi also represented his country on a number of occasions.

Across two appearances with Austria’s World Junior Championship U18 Team, Rossi totalled 10 goals and 15 points in just 10 games played. Although competing in the Division One, Group B Tournament, Rossi’s offensive output at the ages of 15 and 16-years were simply astonishing. More recently, Rossi starred with Austria’s WJC U20 Team — scoring three goals and recording five points as a 16-year-old.

Given his impressive track record of offensive production and proven ability to produce against mature competition, Ottawa’s selection of Rossi with the 18th overall choice in the CHL Import Draft was more of a technicality than it was a difficult decision.

Rossi’s Scouting Report

If hoping to endure a swift and successful transition to the professional-ranks as a full-time player in the coming years, Rossi will need to rely on the broad skill set which has  fuelled his success to date. And, perhaps no element of Rossi’s game is more critical to his daily success than the youngster’s skating ability.

Flashing excellent edge-work and ample agility, Rossi can maneuver throughout the ice with relative ease and keep his opponents on their heels owing to his unpredictability. Although he will need to improve his top speed in the coming years, Rossi remains an impeccable skater who can drive his team’s offensive game through his footwork and puck control alone.

Rossi_BT3
Rossi is an incredibly intelligent player known for his creativity and growing lethality. (Photo Credit: OHL Images)

Amplifying Rossi’s sound attacking game is his seemingly endless creativity with the puck. While he owns a crisp and accurate shot, Rossi’s ability to create and implement plays in the offensive zone forces his defenders to respect both aspects of his game at a high rate of speed. Devastating while attacking off of the rush and a lethal force on the power play, Rossi is a consistent producer who can dismantle opposing teams in variety of ways.

The Years Ahead

Rossi’s road to the show will run through Ottawa and the 67’s, where he will likely play at least two seasons before ascending to a higher level of competition.

Quickly proving to be one of the top prospects available for the 2020 NHL Draft, a dominant rookie year for Rossi with the 67’s will bode incredibly well for his stock as an NHL prospect. If able to out-preform likes of Byfield and Perfetti in the OHL during the 2018-19 season, Rossi could easily be forecast as an early first round choice come his respective NHL Draft.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Rankings

Although skating for a dominant team in the 67’s, Rossi’s ability to adapt to the North American game while establishing himself as an offensive dynamo speaks volumes with regards to his ultimate potential as an NHL player.

In short, be sure to keep a keen eye trained on Rossi in this season and beyond. Despite his small stature, Rossi is a unrelenting force and potential star at the NHL-level.

NHL Prospect Profile: Tobias Björnfot

Tobias Björnfot — a Swedish defenceman currently skating for Djurgarens IF of the SHL — could very well be one of the most overlooked and under-appreciated defenders available for the 2019 NHL Draft.

– Tobias Björnfot –

Djurgårdens IF (SHL) | Defence | 2019 NHL Draft Eligible

Upplands Väsby, Sweden | April 6th, 2001 | 6-foot, 190-pounds

The 2019 NHL Draft is loaded with elite young talent.

However, this year’s class lacks an abundance of promising young defencemen. In fact, as few as two defenders could be chosen within the top-10 overall come June of 2019.

Related: 2019 NHL Draft Rankings

Fortunately, defenceman Tobias Björnfot’s impressive and growing game could allow for the presence of an additional defender within the top-10 overall. Although scouts and analysts alike are torn with respect to Björnfot’s game and its potential, the native of Upplands Väsaby, Sweden has wasted little time establishing himself as an elite NHL prospect in 2018-19.

What exactly makes Björnfot’s game so tantalizing and impactful, you ask?

Strengths:

  • Skating
  • Shot
  • Hockey Sense
  • Composure

Like many dynamic defencemen these days, Björnfot’s game is founded upon his elite skating abilities.

Capable of darting throughout the ice at a high rate of speed, Björnfot can lead the rush up or ice wheel back into the defensive zone with relative ease. Light-footed and known for his fluid stride, Björnfot is incredibly agile — a facet of his game which allows Björnfot to smother attacking forwards before transitioning the puck up ice.

In the offensive zone is where Björnfot has the greatest ability to impact the outcome of any given game.

Capable of manning the blue line with both poise and confidence, Björnfot distributes the puck to his teammates extremely well and generates substantial point totals as a result. What’s more is that Björnfot boasts a stellar shot defined by its quick release — he can beat surprised goaltenders clean if they pay too much respect to his playmaking abilities.

As a player who can feel the pace of play and dictate the momentum within it, Björnfot is developing into a reliable two-way defender. With SHL experience under his belt at the age of 17-years, Björnfot’s maturity will certainly bode well for his value come the 2019 NHL Draft.

Weaknesses:

  • Strength
  • Defensive Positioning

Given his young age, it should come as little surprise to learn that Björnfot will need to improve his personal strength in the coming years, and especially so if he wishes to ascend to the NHL-level fairly quickly.

Although he stands 6-feet and 190-pounds, Björnfot can be pushed off of the puck somewhat easily and can — depending on the situation — struggle to defend opposition of significant size. Until able to brace himself adequately using his lower body strength, the possibility to best Björnfot through the use of physicality will continue to exist.

Related: 2019 NHL Prospect Profiles

One other area of Björnfot’s game which must also improve is the youngster’s positioning in the defensive zone. At times, Björfot can lose track of his respective attacker and is forced to battle to re-gain coverage.

Ultimately, although his defensive play is strong, room for improvement absolutely exists.

Future Potential:

Having assessed Björnfot’s strengths as well as his weaknesses, it is abundantly clear that the budding Swedish star could very well develop into a top-four defender at the NHL-level.

Although his game isn’t perfect, Björnfot’s ability to impact the game at both ends of the ice is both consistent and dramatic. If able to iron out the few kinks currently present within his game, Björnfot could progress into a minute-eating defender capable of being utilized in all situations.

While he was slightly overlooked early on in the 2018-19 season due to his ongoing development in Sweden, expect an eager NHL franchise to nab Björnfot early in the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft.

NHL Prospect Profile: Simon Holmström

Simon Holmstrom is an incredibly talented ‘Swede and one of the 2019 NHL Draft’s most elusive players.

– Simon Holmström –

HV71 (SuperElit) | Right Wing | 2019 NHL Draft Eligible

Tranås, Sweden | May 24, 2001 | 5-foot-11, 172-pounds

Simon Holmström quietly put up one of the better SuperElit seasons among U17 players in the last decade. His 11 goals and 30 points over 28 games rivalled the production of the likes of Mikael Backlund and Filip Forsberg at the same age. An offence-first winger, Holmström has shown the potential to be a valuable point producer at the professional level.

A passer before a shooter, Holmström’s natural playmaking instincts come as a result of his vision of the ice. He seems to always know where his teammates are and can skate his way into time and space with the puck. Surprisingly, Holmström has yet to represent Sweden at a major international tournament.

Strengths:

  • Playmaking
  • Skating
  • Puck Skills

A highly skilled winger, Holmström is a smart player with the puck. He has the ability to dictate the pace of play when he has puck possession and can create time and space for himself and his teammates through his puck-handling and skating prowess. Holmström easily threads passes through traffic and can bait defenders towards him in order to open up his teammates.

On the other hand, Holmström does have the ability to find the back of the net himself on occasion as well. His release is quick, but his shot is not overpowering, as he usually scores by opening himself up for a cross-ice pass. Holmström’s hands are creative and he can beat defencemen one-on-one with relative ease.

Weaknesses:

  • Defensive Awareness

Holmström is a winger who clearly plays with an offence-first mentality. While he is a potentially dynamic playmaker, his defensive game often looks lacklustre. Although that fact won’t be his Achilles heel as a winger, it remains an area for improvement.

Holmström could also use a little extra strength on the puck in order to be more successful in puck battles and to be more steady on the puck when he has possession. Both of these attributes seem to be assets that are continuing to develop as a 17-year-old, so don’t put too much stock into their distinction as a “weakness”.

Future Potential:

Simon Holmström projects to be a top-six winger at the NHL level. He is a potentially dynamic point-producer and an intelligent playmaker. He is an above-average skater and is extremely versatile on the power play. Heading into the ’18-19 season, Holmström looks like a possible first round pick for the 2019 NHL Draft, likely near the end of the round.

NHL Prospect Profile: Maxim Cajkovic

Maim Cajkovic is a magician with the puck who can bury pucks with ease and makes defencemen and goaltenders alike look silly on a regular basis with his eye-catching moves. Cajkovic is a likely first round pick for the 2019 NHL Draft.

– Maxim Cajkovic –

Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL) | Right Wing | 2019 NHL Draft Eligible

Bratislava, Slovakia | January 3, 2001 | 5-foot-11, 187-pounds

Maxim Cajkovic is a magician with the puck who can score goals in a multitude of ways. He really made a name for himself at the 2018 IIHF U18 Championships, where he led the tournament in points-per-game with 11 in just five games. In Sweden, Cajkovic added 14 goals in just 10 games with the Malmö Redhawks at the J18 Elit level, as well as 10 goals and 21 points in 28 SuperElit games, Sweden’s top U20 league.

As a result of his impressive totals during ’17-18, Cajkovic was selected 1st overall by the Saint John Sea Dogs at the 2018 CHL Import Draft. Cajkovic will be able to earn plenty of exposure by playing in the QMJHL during his draft eligible season, much like Andrei Svechnikov and Filip Zadina did by coming to the CHL via the Import Draft last year.

Strengths:

  • Shot
  • Puck Skills
  • Hockey Sense

Maxim Cajkovic is an enticing winger with supreme skills. He has the ability to put the game in his hands through dynamic offensive abilities. Cajkovic plays with a shoot-first mentality and possesses a tremendous release with precision accuracy. He often changes shooting angles on the goaltender right before firing a strong wrist shot which can beat the keeper clean.

Cajkovic also boasts a pair of mesmerizing hands which can make defencemen look foolish on a regular basis. He is a very creative player who utilizes his hockey sense and vision of developing plays to sift through traffic with ease. His speed also remains above average, but not yet at a game-breaking level.

Weaknesses:

  • Defensive Awareness

On the other end of the ice, Cajkovic could use some small improvements. He doesn’t necessarily put his team at risk, but he is rather average in the defensive zone. If his compete level away from the puck was as strong as it was with the puck, he would likely earn praise as a 200-foot player.

As he heads to Saint John for the ’18-19 campaign, there is no doubt that head coach, Josh Dixon, and his bench staff will be hard at work with their prized import to ensure that he will never be a liability to the Sea Dogs in their own end.

Future Potential:

Maxim Cajkovic projects to be a top-six winger at the NHL level. He is a natural goal-scorer with dynamic hands in tight, as well as promising playmaking abilities. Cajkovic has the potential to be an effective, offence generating player who should earn time on the power play as well. Heading into the ’18-19 season, Cajkovic looks like a first round pick for the 2019 NHL Draft, likely in the 20-30th overall range for the time being.