Toronto Maple Leafs Draft Targets: Final Edition
By Austin Owens
Rasmus Sandin, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL), 5 foot 11, 180 pounds
While he doesn’t possess a big frame, Sandin has gotten the experience in men’s professional hockey that gives him an advantage over some of his competition.
While he started the season with Rögle BK in the SHL, the biggest turn for the better came when Sandin moved to North America and the OHL.
"“Sandin is proof that you don’t have to be fancy with the puck in order to achieve results. His decision to leave Sweden’s junior league for the OHL is looking smarter by the day, as he is a top contributor for the Soo as they vie for a Memorial Cup bid. Sandin is a smooth skater who is as dependable away from the puck and he is with it on his stick.” – Steve Kournianos, Sporting News/The Draft Analyst"
What Sandin lacks in size and strength, he makes up for with his ability to close the gap and stick-check opponents.
Sandin has another year left on his contract with Rögle, so he could go back and have a shot to be a top-six defenceman in the SHL. He could also decide to stay in Ontario and have another go-around in the Soo.
He could make the jump to pro hockey sooner than later. He has all the abilities to make the transition seamlessly.
K’Andre Miller, USNTDP (USHL), 6 foot 4, 194 pounds
There are a lot of names on this list, but Miller could be the most intriguing prospect of the bunch.
A converted forward, the U.S. National Development Program blueliner has all the abilities NHL teams are looking for. Although he doesn’t possess the coveted right-handed shot, Miller is a very good skater for his size and takes care of his own end before contributing offensively.
"“Upside is too much to ignore when you consider the size, skating ability, and athleticism. Has cleaned-up his game from the start of the season.” – Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet"
Miller will be heading to the University of Wisconsin to play under coach Tony Granato. The jump to the NCAA will only benefit Miller. Playing against, older, stronger competition will allow him to get a feel for what’s to come as an NHL prospect.
The ceiling is high for Miller. Certainly the highest of any defender at this point in the first round.
Mattias Samuelsson, USNTDP (USHL), 6 foot 4, 192 pounds
From one standout with the U.S. Development Program to another. Samuelsson doesn’t necessarily have the flash that Miller does.
Noted more for his defensive game, the big-bodied defender accumulated 177 total penalty minutes this season. He can improve on his skating, but Samuelsson has the physical tools to close off players on the boards.
"“Son of former NHL defenseman Kjell, Mattias plays the game like his old man; he is a hard hitting and plays a hard game. He may have a better offensive game than his father as he posted nearly a point per game in the USHL.” – Peter Harling, Dobber Prospects"
Samuelsson will be attending the University of Western Michigan next season. He could very well end up wearing a letter for that team.
He can become a top-four shutdown defenceman at the next level. Look for him to be a leader in any locker room he walks into.