Draft Thoughts (MoDo Melky Edition):
Before the start of the season, LHD Melker Sigurd had a bit of a buzz from fans of Tre Kronor, but things haven't quite gone his way statistically this season for MoDo of the J20 league. In the J18 league, Sigurd is one of the better offensive defensemen, and was tied for 10th in ppg (.80) in 2022-23 with 8 assists in 10 games. This season, he put up 5 points in 7 games in that league, but spent the majority of the year with MoDo's J20 team, posting 12 assists in 42 games, with 18 penalty-minutes. Those stats, combined with the fact that he recieved no call-ups to higher leagues in 2023-24, is concerning- and may indicate that he's not worthy of being drafted into the NHL.
Sigurd is billed as being a capable performer in all 3 zones, but at the very least, he is a smart puck-mover with a rather mature game who pays attention to his own zone first. He has the mentality of an offensive D though, as he will join the rush on occasion, pinch in to keep pucks alive, and cut to the slot to shoot. He shows some vision and playmaking skill, but only in flashes- his offensive potential looks to be limited. In transition, he proves his worth with the ability to carry the puck through the neutral zone, making clean exits and entries with his fast hands and smooth stickhandling. He owns top-notch puck-skills, with a fine touch on his passes- he connects with teammates using the right amount of velocity, and right to their wheelhouse. He's highly aware of his surroundings, skating with his head up to map out his options with the goal of maximizing the length of his passes, while minimizing mistakes, and usually moves the puck with simple, low-risk passes. He makes sound decisions, and processes quickly. Mobility-wise, he's a smooth skater with separation speed and good agility for elusiveness in spinning away from checks.
Off the puck, Sigurd supports the play well, giving teammates a constant pass option to relieve pressure and to keep the play moving in the right direction as quickly as possible. Without being a very physical player, he manages to be very reliable defensively, relying on his brain, awareness, and expert positioning to defend, along with his smart stick work. He exerts tight gap control, being able to match footwork effectively with opponents. If Sigurd makes it to the show, and he's a long-shot, he projects as a mobile, defensive shut-down D with bottom-pairing minutes. Look for him in later rounds, if scouts feel he has shown enough to be picked.
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