Ducks select Jacob Larsson with the 27th pick

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The Anaheim Ducks selected Frolunda HC defenseman Jacob Larsson with the 27th pick in the 2015 NHL Draft.

2014-15 Stats

Overview

Larsson made his professional debut with Frolunda this season, splitting time between the men's team and the junior division in a relatively unhurried ascent through the club's developmental program.

Though many high-end draft eligible defensemen from the area play out draft seasons in Sweden's top division, his gradual build shouldn't be a major deterrent to his stock. Larsson is a wonderful skater who can use his big body to create space for himself and distance between the opponent and the puck.

He must shore up some deficiencies in his own end, but Larsson projects to be a top-four contributor who can either skate or pass the puck out of his zone with effectiveness and be utilized on the power play.

He signed a two-year extension with Frolunda in February, and likely will not factor at the NHL level until 2017-18.

What the scouts are saying

Craig Button ranked Larsson as his No. 22 prospect in his final rankings, suggesting that his skills can translate effectively to the NHL brand:

Larsson is very smart and poised and makes plays under pressure. A very good passer who gives you the puck in good time. Doesn’t pass along his problems and finds good options when he has the puck. His skating is solid and he maneuvers well to gain strong defensive positioning and to take advantage offensively. Ideally suited to today’s NHL.

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