Another big detail oriented Finnish centre-wing who projects as high as the second line contributor. Similar to Malhotra, he is a strong positional sound engagemed 60 minutes player with power and workman-like diligence and he will get team’s attention who see him good safe candidate as a positionally sound centre in a class lacking them. He can score from in close, but has some heat in his shots. He will be given development time to add more creativity and better puck handling. Potential as a future NHL centre is where he projects. Last World Junior U-20s at holiday time, he was asked to be the 4th Line Centre for Finland, adding little offense to the club, but added a physicality by his on ice presence that was felt by opposition players he engaged in board battles, protecting the biscuit while possessing, battling for it in corners, and handling it while in the cycle. It is difficult to think teams not having keen interest in him mid-first round.
–Bill Placzek-
