Observations:

May 2015- In light of his recent contributions for the Iowa Wild, Michael Keranen has netted a one-year extension on a two-way basis. He shows modest promise, however it is somewhat doubtful for him to get much bear much fantasy value this upcoming year. If he has it in him to build on the 37 points through 70 AHL games he played this past campaign, it will take time for him to get accustomed to the new pace. What’s more is that Minnesota has a good thing going if the past season’s success was any indication and it’s unlikely they will make drastic measures by playing a relative unknown at the NHL level without being blown away.

December 2014 – Just recently making his North American debut, Michael Keranen has made a promising jump across the pond. As of this update, Keranen is off to a terrific start with 19 points through 27 games for the Iowa Wild. Not bad for a forward that curiously went undrafted. Doesn’t finish plays as often as his talent would suggest he should yet he makes up for it with effort made creating for others around him. If he stays on in the North American circuit will likely need to put on size if he is to compete sustainably. Performing ahead of the curve is not unfamiliar territory to Michael Keranen, whom is a Lasse Oksanen award winner for the top performer of the SM-Liiga regular season having earned the honourable distinction just last season.

While further examination is required given the lack of a track record in the AHL, Keranen looks like he could compliment a creative centre nicely should his current performance rate become what we can confidently expect of him going forward. Edric Joseph

June 2014 – Considered a bit of a “late bloomer,” Keranen is a gifted offensive player with terrific speed and skill that really allows him to challenge his opponents. He has great hands, and is a little bit flashy at times with his dangling, but Keranen is no slouch in the defensive zone either. 2013-14 was his fourth season with Ilves of the Finnish Elite League, and his best to date, as Keranen broke out to the tune of 52 points (17 goals and 35 assists) in 52 games. Keranen signed a one-year, two-way contract with Minnesota this offseason. He possesses great ability to pass the puck to setup his teammates. However, it will be interesting to see how the Wild plan to use him in their line shuffles because his talent goes to waste as a bottom six forward. Jamie Zadow

Fantasy Outlook: C-

Still has a chance to eventually make the show, but is a long shot to get into the top six.

Footage:

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Michael Keranen highlights:

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Buy the latest Fantasy Prospects Report here.

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