If ever, for one reason or another, the Montreal Canadiens do not select Shane Wright in the next National Hockey League (NHL) draft, he can turn to interesting alternatives, in particular the Slovak Juraj Slafkovsky.
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The 18-year-old skater became the second-youngest recipient of the Olympic tournament’s MVP award last winter. Having scored seven goals in as many games in Beijing, he helped his country win the bronze medal, while increasing his value with scouts on the Bettman Tour.
The second-ranked international player in the NHL Central Scouting’s mid-season rankings also had 10 points in 31 games with TPS in the Finnish Liiga this year. He achieved playoff success with seven points in 17 outings.
“He uses his big size, reach and skill inside the rules. He represents a good forechecker, both in the offensive zone and on the defensive side. For a guy of his size, he’s surprisingly mobile and quick,” NHL European scouting director Goran Stubb told the league’s official website.
A 6-foot-3, 218-pound skater, Slafkovsky is expected to take part in the upcoming World Championships scheduled for Finland May 13-29, which will be another opportunity for him to show off his skills.
“”Slavy” plays well, with enthusiasm. He is physical. At first he couldn’t score, then he was invited to the Games. In his first match, he scored two goals and he took off suddenly, described the head coach of his national team, Craig Ramsay. Sometimes these youngsters just need something that can give them confidence. But he is strong, has good feet and good hands. He has a great attitude.”
In the footsteps of a great?
According to Ramsay, the Slovak could well emulate a big name from the New York Islanders dynasty of the 1980s.
“He reminds me a bit of Clark Gillies, who grew up on that great line with Bryan Trottier and Mike Bossy,” he said. He is a powerful guy capable of scoring goals. Every time he was on the ice, he imposed his presence. Other guys look like him, but he will be a player with his own style. He will be good if the coaches just give him the chance to play.”