The Calgary Flames added one of the most touted defensemen in the draft, selecting Juuso Valimaki 16th overall Friday at the NHL Entry Draft.
Juuso Valimaki
Position: Defense
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 201 lbs
Age: 18
Club: Tri-City Americans (WHL)
Nationality: Finland
| GP | G | A | P | ES GPG | ES PPG | ES GF% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 | 19 | 42 | 61 | 0.2 | 0.48 | 50% |
(Even-strength stats courtesy: prospect-stats.com)
Valimaki entered the draft as the 11th-ranked North American skater, and the second-ranked defenseman. A native of Finland, the 18-year-old appears to be the complete package on the blue line, and should immediately shoot to the top of the Flames' prospect pool.
Mobility is Valimaki's best asset, as his effortless stride allowed him to dominate the WHL this season, finishing seventh among defensemen in league scoring, and the only player of his age to crack the top 10.
Valimaki isn't physically imposing on the ice, but is a legitimate offensive threat. He operated the Americans' power play frequently in 2016-17, managing 25 points - 17 of which primary - with the man advantage.
You can see highlights of Valimaki's draft season below.
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