Kings select two-way speedster Rasmus Kupari 20th overall
The Los Angeles Kings drafted Rasmus Kupari with the 20th overall pick in the NHL draft on Friday night.
Position: Center
Height: 6-foot-1
Weight: 183 lbs
Age: 18
Club: Karpat (SM-liiga)
Nationality: Finland
| GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | 6 | 8 | 14 |
The first thing that jumps off the page while watching Kupari play is his skating ability. He's not just fast in terms of pure speed, but his edge work is phenomenal.
Kupari uses his speed to close in on defenders and cause turnovers. While he's not physical, he's a good forechecker with a good stick and plenty of drive.
Offensively, Kupari has slick hands and can make dynamic plays while at full speed off the rush. He has a good shot, though not elite, and he doesn't wow you with his passing ability, but he should flourish into a solid two-way center.
"He's a mix of Jesse Puljujarvi and Sebastian Aho," Karpat head coach Mikko Manner said, according to Suomikiekko.com via Elite Prospects.