Draft Thoughts:
Feb.13th: "C"-rated LD Ola Palme (6'1",188lbs) was 11th-overall in scoring by D in the Hlinka with 3 points in 5 games, but he was tied for 3rd in plus/minus with a +5- displaying his ability to drive play through transition. He has had some bad luck with injuries this season, missing games at the start of the year, along with a few other minor setbacks, which some say might be affecting his play. He's had games in the U18 Region (5 points in 4 games), the U20 (8 points in 13 games), and the SHL (5 games, but only had ice-time in 1 contest). Surprisingly, he is tied for 55th in scoring by D in the U20, and his 0.62 ppg ranks 33rd. He is #46 for European Skaters in Central Scouting's Mid-Term Rankings.
Palme is active in the offensive zone, with no fear in joining in with the action, and an ability to both support and facilitate, but he might end up being a responsible puck-moving, defensive performer in the show. His background stats paint the picture of a defender who drives transition, tilting the ice in his team's favor, and quickly turning defensive zone-time into rushes going the other way- he is poised and patient with the puck on his blade. Palme has the puck-skill and awareness to shake off pressure in retrievals, and exhibits heads-up scanning habits to spot options for his meticulous breakout passes. Though perhaps not a high-end burner, he moves very well on a smooth and projectable stride, and owns quick hands to handle in traffic, as well as good puck-protection in traversing the neutral zone. He gets high grades for his hockey sense, IQ, and vision- which gives him immaculate positioning in the defensive zone, as well as the acute anticipation to stay above the puck at all times- although he looks more effective with the puck, than without. Palme is competitive and physical, launching himself into puck-battles, and makes life difficult for attackers in front of the net. Look for him in the 3rd, or 4th-round.
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