119. Otto Salin, D, Hifk Jr. (FINLAND-JR.)
Mar. 7, 2004 | 5′ 11.0″ | 187 pounds | Shoots right
Tier: Projected has a chance to play games
Skating: Below NHL average
Puck skills: NHL average
Hockey sense: NHL average
Compete: Below NHL average
Background: Salin missed most of the first half due to injury but when healthy he was a very good junior player at the Finland U20 level and for Finland’s U18 team. He also played up for HIFK’s pro team.
Analysis: Salin is a skilled puck-moving defenseman. He shows great creativity as a handler to create off the rush and off the offensive blue line. He shows good poise to hold pucks for an extra second to make a play, and in general can help a power play. Salin’s main issues come on the defensive side of the puck. He’s fine in that regard as a junior, but with average mobility, a 5-foot-11 frame and a lack of physicality, whether he’ll be able to check NHL players is a whole other issue. His offense gives him a chance to play if he can round out his game.
