NHL Prospect Profile Tobias Bjornfot

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Scout Quotes

Last Word on Hockey

Bjornfot could develop into a two-way defenceman with a top-four role at the NHL level. Like most young defenders, he still has some things to learn in his own zone. That said, he is already highly advanced for a draft-eligible player. The question here is the offence. It is rarely seen in Bjornfot’s international appearances (with the exception of the Five Nations tournament).

While he puts up points in the domestic junior league, there is also some concern that the points per game did not grow much from last season to this one. If a team can unlock his puck-moving and offensive skill, they could have a gem on their hands. Currently, his game is similar to Jonas Brodin but this is a style comparison only and not one based on skill.

AJ’s Thoughts

I like watching Bjornfot’s game. There’s a real question about what kind of offense he’ll bring, especially at higher levels, because the results have been erratic so far. He plays a smart game and I think his combination of skating and vision will be enough to make him a positive offensive player down the road. If he can improve his shot, both in its velocity and his ability to get it through traffic, he could prove to be a dangerous weapon from the blue line.

Most of his international appearances have seen him tasked with playing more a shutdown role while others have been encouraged to roam a bit more so Bjornfot’s game has been a bit understated in those appearances. He’s solid defensively when asked to be and can play a very clean game in his own zone. I think his work defensively is more advanced than his offense right now and if he gets put on a fast track to North America (like an immediate jump to the AHL), that’s the part of his game he’ll be able to lean on. He’s not very tall but he’s very stocky and he has no issues with the physical side of the game.

He has been lauded by many scouts for his leadership and intangibles, something NHL teams always covet on draft day.

Highlights

Avalanche Fit

This is a guy where you’re looking at the 47th pick. If the Avs don’t land a defenseman with either of their two first-round selections, tabbing Bjornfot at 47 would be very solid value as that is about where I have him ranked. His upside may not be more than the second pairing and that might be why he slides down just a bit.

Bjornfot would be an excellent fit for Colorado though because he’s a mobile defender who fits their identity nicely. He has the added bonus of being a more polished defender and when projecting down the road, that’s going to be something the Avs will be needing in two years.

Because he hasn’t carved out a consistent job in the SHL yet, I think two years is a fair timeline for him to continue developing in Europe and then come to North America and push for time in the AHL before making the NHL leap. It’s going to take some time with him so should Colorado select him, Avs fans can prepare to be patient.

Rankings

Ranked #45 by TSN/McKenzie

Ranked #7 by NHL Central Scouting (EU Skaters)

Ranked #36 by Future Considerations