Toronto Maple Leafs: Breaking down second-round forward draft targets
By Austin Owens
Samuel Fagemo, Right Wing, Frölunda HC (SHL)
Over the past few years, the Maple Leafs have shifted their draft philosophy to selecting the most skilled players available, regardless of age.
They’ve gone with multiple overagers over the past three drafts, with names like Adam Brooks, Egor Korshkov, and Mac Hollowell all featuring for the AHLs Marlies in this year’s playoffs.
Fagemo, a 19-year-old winger who plays predominantly for Frölunda in the SHL, fits the type of player the Leafs love to take in the draft.
He was passed over in last year’s draft to the surprise of many. He posted just under a point per game with Frölunda’s J20 team and was looked at as a mid-round prospect at the worst but found himself without a team to call home at the end of day two.
"“Under six foot, but thick, he sees time on the power play and had started to develop a strong 200 foot game. He’s have a bit of sniper in him, as his quick release is pretty accurate. Will receive a pass and let it fly on net in one motion. Deft passer who can saucer it to his teammates in flight. Good development project at wing. There is enough talent to think he will get chosen while teams try and patiently hone his hockey IQ.” – Bill Placzek, DraftSite"
He went back to Sweden to play for Frölunda this season and had a tremendous first full campaign in the Swedish top tier.
Fagemo finished with 14 goals and 25 points in 42 games, good for sixth on the team in scoring. In the postseason, he had 10 points in 16 games as the Indians
After being passed over last year, there’s not a chance that the Swedish winger gets overlooked again. Fagemo is one of the most intriguing names available around the Maple Leafs’ second-round pick.