Round Table: Grading the Anaheim Ducks 2020 Draft Selections

Albin Sundsvik, Skellefteå AIK J20, C (160th Overall)

Brad Senecal: C

Similar to Galimov, Albin Sundsvik has played much of the previous seasons in the elite leagues against men. Another big body (6’2”), he has shown his ability to score goals and get to the net. I am not as familiar with his defensive prowess, so I am unsure how he would fit as a bottom-six forward in the NHL.

Garrett Brown: D

This actually might be Isac Lundestrom reincarnated. And it feels like just as much of a question mark as it did in 2018. At least this year it occurred in the 6th round. Sundsvik played in the SHL during his draft year and put up underwhelming statistics, akin to his new teammate Lundestrom.

Without being able to watch video on him, I can’t begin to understand why the Ducks felt the need for another Swiss (Swedish) army knife. Based on nothing but a hunch, I don’t see Sundsvik playing in the NHL soon, if ever.

Ben Thomasian: B-

Let’s not beat around the bush, Sundsvik is very likely a future bottom-6 option. However, we’re also discussing a 19-year-old in his third year of SHL hockey. Last year may not have gone to plan for him in the big leagues, however, he did manage 38 games (and 54 total to date) in the fourth-best men’s league in the world.

Defensively he worked hard, and there may be a hint of offensive upside given his point per game pace in J20 SuperElit over the past two seasons. Worth noting that he’s another player of the Ducks who is currently playing and furthering his development. Given the uncertainty of play in North America, this is a notable draft strategy for the Ducks. He’s well worth a selection this far back in the draft.

Ciara Durant: C

I’m kind of bored by this draft pick. Another Swede for Murray. Long live Swedenheim? Anyways, back on track, while the kid did post almost a point per game it’s really hard for me to adequately give my opinion on some of the later rounds picks because there isn’t much known about them.

The only thing I can really take away from the research is that his defensive skills are there, but he could improve offensively. He seems like he works hard and engages physically. Still bored though. But, I can’t really make any accurate assumptions about the kid until I see him in action.

Overall Grade: