Breaking Down and Interviewing 2021 NHL Draft Prospect Samuel Helenius

 

Team	JYP Jyväskylä (Liiga)
Birth	2002-11-26, Järvenpää, FIN
Position	C
Shoots	L
Height	199 cm / 6’6’’
Weight	94 kg / 207 lbs

 

Brief scouting report

Samuel Helenius is a defensive-minded two-way center with an occasional offensive contribution. He is very responsible defensively and brings physical impact to the game with his big frame. For his size, Helenius skates relatively well and has a solid wrist shot with quick release. While he doesn’t possess the best high-end offensive skills, he shouldn’t be underestimated in the offensive zone either. He is also an exceptional penalty killer.

 

Offensive game and features

Helenius isn’t the most offensively skilled player but shouldn’t be underestimated when speaking of finishing. He showed a few really nice offensive plays in the World Juniors and had a really solid 14 points in Liiga this season. He doesn’t really have high-end skill or creativity, and his upside is not top-six forward, but he can make “normal” plays work in the offensive zone. He also possesses solid scoring talent as he usually is able to finish off plays if his linemates set him up. His shot is not the best in the class but it’s definitely not bad, and he flashed it a few times this season. He can also release it quickly, which is a good asset.

 

Helenius skates relatively well for his size as he has a really solid technique. His stride is pretty good but could be a bit longer. He also has pretty good stride frequency for a big player but could contribute more power to the strides. However, for a 6’6” & 207 lbs at 18-years-old, he’s a really good skater and I’m sure that’s definitely a thing that will improve to the NHL level.