Flames after college free agent Justin Kloos. UPD: signs with Wild
Michael Russo @Russostrib
Sources: #mnwild has made contract offer to #gophers captain and 2012 MN Mr. Hockey Justin Kloos. Deal would start next season, Iowa ATO now
Michael Russo @Russostrib
Besides #mnwild, Calgary #Flames after Justin Kloos, per sources.
The 23-year-old has carried his scoring prowess from the USHL right into the Golden Gophers lineup, putting up 17 goals and 41 points in 34 games so far this season. Kloos is another undersized player, but more and more undersized players are succeeding in the NHL now. A common theme amongst those who do is their outstanding skating, and Kloos might be one of the fastest players in college hockey. His speed must be respected or he can blow past a defender on the rush and cut to the net. As defenders back off he can take the extra room to take a wrist shot with his quick release, or use the passing lane to set up a linemate. The big question for Kloos will be how much his lack of size will limit his two-way game, but he’s an industrious worker who may be able to overcome that limitation.
Kloos has put together four excellent seasons at the University of Minnesota, including serving as team captain for the past two years. Kloos has above-average speed and good offensive skill. He has the patience and vision to make the extra pass in the offensive zone, and good finishing ability. He’s a strong character player that works hard and frequently comes up big in big moments. There’s a lot to like about him, and impossible to argue with what he’s accomplished at the college level.
The problem is that Kloos has always been a bit of a tweener as an NHL prospect. He’s probably not quite skilled enough to play a top-six scoring role at the NHL level, and not quite big enough to play a physical checking line role. That said, someone with his track record will likely get an opportunity with an NHL contract with somebody, and it seems like it would be a mistake to bet against him contributing somehow in the NHL.
Last edited by sureLoss; 03-28-2017 at 03:39 PM.
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The way that highlight pack is edited, I can't tell a single thing about this player other than he can score at the NCAA level. Can't tell a thing about his shot, his speed, his awareness, anything.
Pencil him in as a Ferland replacement on the top line I suppose
At this rate the Flames will dress 2 goalies, 15 defencemen with Phillips, Kloos and Lomberg in Stockton next year. Maybe, Mangiapani will rotate with the 3 forwards. Haha
whether we get this player or not, i'm pleased to hear that the flames are investigating these players and that they are considering Calgary as a great team to develop with.
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Flames after college free agent Justin Kloos. UPD: signs with Wild
