FinnProspects

Blues - Kärpät U18 (3-1) Prospect Notes

Posted at 2017-02-05 by Marco Bombino

This was another strong game for 2018 draft eligible prospect Lenni Killinen. The left wing has good puck skills and accelerates quickly, which makes him an offensive threat and a dynamic player. He scored the game-winning goal for Blues U18 and it was a great individual effort. Has a quick shot from the slot and is also a fairly creative player. Strong on the puck and below the dots.

Zdenek Sedlak is a talented Czech forward who joined Kärpät juniors from Zlin last season. He has a great, heavy wrist shot. Possesses good stickhandling skills and poise with the puck. Strong in board battles and utilizes his 6’2 (188 cm) frame well. Acceleration and first step quickness could use some improvement but he does move well for a prospect of his size and age. The right wing has the potential to be a really good pro player.

The team includes several offensively talented defensemen. Aapo Holtinkoski is a poised, skilled blueliner who can join the rush thanks to his quickness. Kalle Loponen is more of a two-way defenseman who excels at the point and can do a little bit of everything. He was counted on in key situations. Uula Ruikka is a sharp puck mover, sees the ice well and moves the puck on accurately. While his reads were good away from the puck today, some additional strength would be beneficial in battles in the defensive zone.

Players mentioned on this article:
Zdenek Sedlak, Lenni Killinen, Uula Ruikka