Like we’ve done in the past, we’re profiling top prospects who may hear their names called in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft.
But this year, something new — we’re featuring special guest analysis from Ryan Kennedy, associate senior writer and prospect expert at The Hockey News.
Jesse Puljujarvi (RW)
Height: 6-foot-4 Weight: 203 pounds Shoots: Right
Team: Karpat (Finland)
Country: Finland
NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 3 European skater
Kennedy says:
“At the start of the year, Puljujarvi looked like a pretty good No. 2 behind Matthews, but he was somewhat eclipsed by countryman Patrik Laine along the way. It’s a shame, because Puljujarvi is really good.
“He’s a better two-way player than Laine and has just as much competitive fire. He also has size and can also score with abandon, as his MVP performance at the world juniors proved beyond doubt.
“Hampered by a lower-body injury near the end of the season, Puljujarvi gutted it out through the Finnish playoffs and went to the world under-18s, where he helped Finland win another gold medal. He’s ready for the NHL.”
Related: Could the Blue Jackets really trade the third overall pick?
Click here for all the 2016 NHL Draft profiles.