Observations:

May, 2011 – Speedy winger Mikko Lehtonen, not related to the former Nashville D-man with the same name, has been highly touted prospect throughout his career. He is a really good skater with great shot and also has the frame and strength to be a NHL level power forward. He played two seasons in the AHL with Providence Bruins scoring 53 and 50 points respectively but didn’t get a decent shot in the NHL. He moved to play in Elitserien in 2010 and finished second in the league scoring race just two points shy of Avalanche prospect Joakim Lindström. In 2011 he played his first season in the KHL and scored 21 points in 48 games. Lehtonen has still all what it takes to be a NHL level scoring line winger, but he won’t move to play there without getting a one-way contract, which has been the issue lately. Lehtonen’s rights are now owned by Minnesota Wild.

Fantasy Outlook: C+

Good upside. The issue is whether he’ll get a shot in the NHL or not.

Footage:

Good goal by Lehtonen in Elitserien:

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Fantasy Prospects Report Notes (Any FPR’s released in the last 18 months will not be listed here):

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Mikko Lehtonen statistics courtesy of Elite Prospects