Today it was announced that Gabriel Carlsson was signed to a standard three year entry level contract by the Blue Jackets. Carlsson was the other first round pick from last year, many remember Zach Werenski but tend to forget about the “Swedish Behemoth.”
Carlsson’s stat line isn’t anything outrageous as evidenced by the 9 points in 45 games with Linkoping HC; but, he was never really projected to be an offensive dynamo. Nonetheless, it is still nice to see him put points up in a league normally dominated by veteran players.
What exactly do scouts think of Carlsson?
This from Future Considerations in his draft year:
“A smooth puck-‐moving defenseman who has an impressive frame to build upon, skates well and provides a strong defensive presence. Carlsson is really a great skater for his size, with no real knocks against him. Carries the puck well but has a tendency to over handle the play at times, resulting in some turnovers; he will learn what he can get away with as he matures.
His defensive game is effective as he is agile and quick to shut down chances. He is capable of roughing it up in battles and has the strength and battle skills to come out the victor in physical battles. Boxes out the front of his net and is quick to bat away chances with his stick. Needs a bit of simplicity to avoid some blunders, but that may also come with maturity. The combination of his size and skill in both ends will be intriguing for NHL teams, but he will need time.”
You can see what gets the front office so riled up. He has the tools to be a good NHLer, so hopefully getting him in a centralized location for his development will do wonders for him.
Lake Erie looks to be the likely destination for him at the beginning of next season, and that partnership seems to be working out, eh?
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