Senators draft Lassi Thomson 19th overall
The Ottawa Senators used their first-round draft pick on Lassi Thomson, nabbing the Finnish blue-liner 19th overall.
Lassi Thomson
Position: Defense
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 190 lbs
Age: 18
Club: Kelowna Rockets (WHL)
Nationality: Finland
| GP | G | A | P |
|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 17 | 24 | 41 |
(Stats Courtesy: Elite Prospects)
Thomson is a smart offensive-minded defenseman with good puck skills. He has a heavy shot from the point and his 17 goals were good enough for third among all WHL defenseman last season.
The 18-year-old was used in all situations for the Rockets and was effective generating points in his big minutes. He won't make the jump straight to the NHL, as he's set to play in his native Finland next season for Ilves.
What they're saying
"There are a lot of positive attributes in his game. He has an absolute rocket from the point that can beat goalies clean, as well as generate opportunities around the net. He can move the puck very well with his brain and feet. His puck game is good, showing the ability to generate clean exits and entries, stretch the ice on breakouts, and showing confidence with the puck. He can at times make high-end plays with his poise and vision but he also tends to be too cute with the puck and play without urgency, leading to costly turnovers." - The Athletic's Corey Pronman.