Defensemen
Alexander Alexeyev
The big Russian defenseman can skate, play physical, produce offense, and has a hard shot
Viktor Persson
A smooth-skating, transitional defender. Carries underrated offensive tools and projects to be a top-six defender.
Joel Nystrom
Strong skater who plays big minutes for one of the better teams in the SHL. Defense is ahead of offense, but the offense has some indications that show room for growth and potential. Could play NHL games later down the line.
Jack Thompson
A strong-skating defenseman who plays a good two-way game.
Joni Jurmo
A puck-rushing defenseman with great size. A skilled player who knows how to handle the puck at high speed. Not the most dynamic player in the offensive end but capable of producing points. Needs to improve decision-making and defensive zone play.
Daniil Miromanov
Speedy skater and intuitive scorer who transitioned from the wing to defense. Could stand to bulk up more and iron out his defensive game.
Topi Niemelä
Very reliable and smart two-way defenseman who will join the rush and get involved offensively. Reliable defensively already at young age which bodes well for his NHL future.
Maxime Lajoie
Middle-pair defenseman with some offensive upside. Likely an AHL, depth call-up at this stage of his career.
Hunter Brzustewicz
A mobile and intelligent defender who moves the puck efficiently. He excels at transitioning the puck and finding open teammates for long passes. However, consistency is a concern.
Marshall Rifai
Smooth-skating, physical blueliner who could become a depth piece at the NHL level.