| 05 June 2010
It looks like the Coyotes have a couple of young, talented dmen ready to make the jump to the big leagues.
First up is Oliver Ekman-Larsson, only 18, who we drafted last year, sixth over all. This kid is pretty much a phenom and I cannot wait to see him play.
In his spare time he is also a super-secret spy...
(google image: from HFBoards)
The past two seasons he has played for Sweden's 2nd highes professional lague. Last year, as the youngest player, he was 3-14-17and a +44 in 39 games. This season? 9-18-27 in 39 games. I was unable to find any indication of is +/- but this kid is very defensively responsible so I would guess it would be quite high.
He also has his fair share of international experience. He earned a bronze at this years World Championship and World Junior Championships. Last year he finished fifth at the Under 18 World Championships. That is a lot of play and a lot of talent.
And he has crazy hair! He will fit right in with the Yotes.
(google image: http://leksandsheart.sportsblogg.se/)
He has now signed an entry level contract with the Coyotes and could be ready for the NHL for the 2010-2011 season. Personally, I think it might be best to start out in San Antonio then call him up. I saw him briefly at rookie camp last summer and he really stood out. I just worry that he will become another Kyle Turris. I guess you give him a chance at training camp and if he has a strong camp, you give him a shot. You can always send him down if it appears he is struggling. I believe GMDM and Tippett would not be afraid to send him down if he has problems. If it were Gretzky... I'd be worried.
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Earlier this year, the Coyotes also signed Michael Stone to an entry level contract. After a successful season he will be leaving the WHL and hoping to make it with the big boys.
Oh wait... this is NOT our Michael Stone. Ours is not a killer.
(google image: http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/)
This season he ad 21 goals and 44 assists in 69 games. During the 23 playoff games, he had 5 goals and 15 assists. Another offensive dman to add to our plethora.
Ok... that is MUCH better!
(google image: hockeysfuture.com)
Look for Michaelt to be at this years rookie camp and I would guess training camp. I would figure he will make the San Antonio team. I really don't foresee him jumping right into the NHL like Ekman-Larsson (unless we can't get some UFAs signed). I would definitely think San Antonio over Vegas. The boy seems to have some skill.
