NHL Prospect Profile: Isac Lundestrom

Statistics

Scout Quotes

Lundestrom could be a solid two-way forward at the NHL level, capable of playing in all situations and putting up points. While it’s not clear that he has the potential to be a franchise centre, he can be a solid top-six player. Lundestrom needs to work on improving his strength, being better in front of the net without the puck, and shooting more. His defensive game will also grow with more minutes and good coaching. Expect him to spend another year or two in Sweden before coming to the NHL. – Last Word on Hockey

Playing smart, two-way hockey at high speeds is something you rarely see from any teenager, let alone one that receives top-six minutes in Sweden’s top league. Lundestrom was far too advanced a prospect to play junior hockey, and he succeeded with an altered role for Lulea. He’s fast, aggressive and loves to cause havoc on the forecheck. But don’t think for one second that his speed is what makes him a tantalizing prospect – Lundestrom is very creative with the puck and can bury chances from in close. – The Draft Analyst

AJ’s Thoughts

zzzzz. Lundestrom is about as “boring” and “safe” a selection as there is in this year’s first round. He’s a stout two-way center who flashes some creative offense but he’s not a guy who is going to provide much high-end play. He’s a solid skater and his hockey sense is solid but overall his appeal comes in his ability to play a reliable two-way game every night. There isn’t a single attribute that jumps out at you about him but if you grade each of his skills individually none of them would get low grades either.

I’ve compared his ceiling to maybe that of Lars Eller where I see more of a third-line center here than a player who can chew up second-line minutes. If his offense develops he could easily play the reliable defensive-oriented Robin to a star’s Batman. Or whatever sidekick you’d prefer.

Highlights

Avalanche Fit

At 16, this would certainly feel a little on the safe side. The Avs arguably played it safe in 2016 when they took Tyson Jost at 10 and Lundestrom would be the organization running it back. The overall upside is limited and while he fits in as a center who could handle some defensive zone minutes, that’s about the best selling point here. His skating isn’t overly dynamic and his hockey sense is not so overwhelming that he fits that bill either. He’s…fine. At 16 it wouldn’t feel good or bad. It would be like eating oatmeal for breakfast.

Rankings

#22 Hockey Prospect
#21 Future Considerations
#19 McKeen’s Hockey