Vancouver Canucks: 11 NCAA UFAs Vancouver Could Target
C Kalle Kossila
Another European import, Kalle Kossila is one of four players from Finland on St. Cloud State’s roster. The 2015-16 campaign was his senior year and his best NCAA season.
Kossila started his hockey career in Finland, but he was never a real standout prospect. While many European prospects play above their age group or even in professional men’s leagues before being drafted into the NHL, Kossila generally stayed in his age group. At 5-foot-9 and 150 pounds, he just did not seem ready.
In his first Junior A season — his NHL draft year 2010-11 — Kossila had eight goals and 19 points in 30 games. Not enough.
His breakout season came one year later. Still with the Espoo Blues U20, Kossila recorded 20 goals and 57 points in 32 games and played in six games for Finland’s U20 squad, recording three goals and six points. That 2011-12 campaign was enough to earn him a spot in St. Cloud State’s hockey program.
There, Kossila grew at least a little bit and is now listed at six feet and 187 pounds. He led his team in scoring this season, recording 14 goals and 52 points in 40 games — tied for fifth in the entire NCAA.
Kalle Kossila worked hard to reach his goal, and he should certainly get consideration from NHL teams this spring.
Next: C Mark Jankowski