The Anaheim Ducks 2018 First Round Draft Pick: Isac Lundeström
The most highly anticipated event of the NHL offseason has officially come to a close. Seven talented young men are now hockey property of the Anaheim Ducks. Today we break down their first-round pick Isac Lundestrom.
General Manager Bob Murray is fully aware that the future of the Anaheim Ducks is now. That’s why being careful with the Duck’s draft picks is essential. After the draft selections were made, it was clear that the main focus was to add depth down the middle and in the net.
With the 23rd overall selection, the Anaheim Ducks drafted Swedish ice hockey center, Isac Lundestrom. Unfortunately, I have seen plenty of negative feedback concerning the Ducks decision to draft Lundestrom. I understand the concerns that some of you have, I know that I had a few concerns myself. That was before I took the time to do some research.
“Skilled puck-distributor has shown very well as a draft-eligible player in the SHL – his second year in Sweden’s top league. His skills are unspectacular, but the nuances to his game are terrific. He’s the type of player you like the more you watch him.” – Cam Robinson, Dobber Prospects
As we take the time to look more in-depth at Lundestrom, I think you will begin to understand why the Ducks used their first draft selection on him.
An Introduction to Isac Lundestrom
It is my privilege to introduce you to the Anaheim Ducks 23rd selection of the 2018 draft, Isac Lundestrom.
“I was really emotional when I heard my name. Huge honor to be a part of the Anaheim Ducks organization. A lot of good Swedish players there. I’ve also heard good things about Anaheim.” -Isac Lundestrom
The 18-year-old Gallivare, Sweden native just finished his second season in the SHL with Lulea HF. Lundestrom made the move to center last season and thrived in his new position. This transition has helped him to make significant strides to improve his game. The result was 15 points (6g, 9a).
Bob Murray is looking for speedy players, and Lundestrom fits the bill. He has proven to be a powerful skater who can handle the puck and knows what’s necessary to change the tempo on the ice. Lundestrom is not afraid to use his size on the ice to apply pressure to his opponents in order to muscle them off the puck.
His ability to transition to any of the forward positions will be an added bonus to Anaheim. Lundestrom needs to improve his defensive game. He also has to become more comfortable shooting the puck rather than passing it. However, he has made it clear that he is ready to work on his areas of deficiency.
DALLAS, TX – JUNE 22: Isac Lundestrom receives his jersey onstage after being selected twenty-third overall by the Anaheim Ducks during the first round of the 2018 NHL Draft. (Photo by Brian Babineau/NHLI via Getty Images)
Don’t Get Caught Up In Numbers
It is so easy to get caught up in numbers and statistics. Especially when you rely on them to show you what potential a player has. If he’s producing lots of points, it is logical to assume that they will continue that as a professional. Besides, a team can always use another player who knows how to create a goal scoring opportunity.
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. Lundestrom owns an excellent shot with a quick release. He requires little backswing to get velocity on his slapper, and he can pick corners from the tightest of angles. – Steve Kournianos, The Draft Analyst
At first glance, Lundestrom’s numbers don’t look great. Six goals and nine assists in 42 games can be a bit concerning. However, you must realize that he’s playing in the SHL. This is not a junior league. He is one of the youngest players currently on the roster. The average age of the other players on his team is 25-years-old.
His older, more physical teammates, have an advantage over him. At 18-years-old he still has some growing to do, physically as well as his game management. The slightly larger ice in Sweden can also be a reasonable explanation for his current numbers. However, we must also remember that he is continuously improving and developing.
The Wrap
I wholeheartedly believe that Lundestrom’s game will translate well on North American ice. Of course, there are still developmental strides he has to make in order to reach the NHL. Fortunately, he has plenty of time iron out any issues he needs to work on. I can’t wait to see what that future holds for Isac Lundestrom and the Anaheim Ducks!
Next: Does Silfverberg Have A Future With Anaheim?
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