Joona Koppanen had an excellent World Juniors tournament for Finland. The big center prospect scored three goals and one assist in five games, including a shorthanded goal against USA. The fourth line line that also included Juha Jääskä and Markus Nurmi was consistently able to have a positive impact on the play.

There were a lot of positives about Koppanen’s game. The Boston Bruins’ fifth round pick showcased a very high compete level and good smarts away from the puck. He was strong on the penalty kill. He wasn’t afraid to play physically when required and played with a lot of determination. He supported his teammates well and knew his responsibilities on the ice. In addition, he made solid plays offensively, displaying impressive finishing ability in particular. He was effective around the net and scored three goals with only 10 shots on goal.

Koppanen also had good straight-line speed and decent agility. His first few strides aren’t the quickest, but his skating definitely didn’t hold him back in the tournament.

Big and strong center scored two goals in a defeat against Ässät in U20 league quarterfinals. Koppanen looked like a man among boys and he seems like ready for pro game.

Center has excelled at defensive game before but he has also been able to produce a lot of offense this season thanks to his high hockey IQ. While Koppanen is not the flashiest player on ice and he does not have the craftiest hands, he can play efficient passing game and he has above average wrist shot. His skating looks clumsy at times but that area has taken leaps forward this season and his top speed is one of the best in the league already.