Canucks: Wingers that are potential mid-round draft targets
By Rick Warman
Daniel Torgersson
2019-2020 Club: Frolunda HC J20 (SuperElit)
Position: RW/LW
Height: 6’3″ Weight: 205 lbs
Swedish winger Daniel Torgersson provides a big-bodied net-front presence. He netted 26 goals and added 18 assists in 39 games for his junior club last season. He also appeared in six games in the SHL but failed to register a point. Additionally, Torgersson played 13 games with the Sweden U18 squad managing 10 points. His skating is impressive, particularly for a player with a large frame. Torgersson is more of a complementary player than one who drives the play. However, the blend of size and speed contribute to making him an intriguing prospect.
The questionable side of his game is his lack of creativity and playmaking skills and the fact that he doesn’t use his size to full advantage.
Ryan Francis
2019-2020 Club: Cape Breton Eagles (QMJHL)
Position: RW/C
Height: 5’9″ Weight: 168 lbs
Diminutive forward, Ryan Francis finished second amongst first-time draft-eligible players in the QMJHL, behind only Alexis Lafreniére. Injuries to other top prospects, along with having solid linemates were contributing factors. Nevertheless, his 72 points in 61 games provided a 40 point improvement from the previous season. Francis plays an up-tempo style that creates excitement. His creativity and crafty playmaking, along with an accurate shot, make him dangerous in the offensive zone. Francis is used in all situations and provides an ultra compete-level. His defensive game is a work in progress that is consistently improving.
His lack of size is a concern and poses the question as to whether his skills are elite enough to allow him to produce at the next level. However, he is very determined, and the team that takes a chance on him may find a diamond in the rough.
Oliver Suni
2019-2020 Club: Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Position: RW
Height: 6’2″ Weight: 187 lbs
Finnish winger, Oliver Suni exploded onto the scene after joining the Oshawa Generals last season. In a four-game stretch early in the season, he registered nine points. However, a shoulder injury in early December led to struggles following his return to the lineup. Suni only managed five points in the last 13 games before cancellation of the remainder of the season. His 32 points in 43 games were not representative of his offensive potential as he sat second in points per game for rookies at the time of his injury. Suni represented Finland at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, adding three assists in three contests.
Along with his size, other attributes that make him a fascinating prospect are his skating and stickhandling abilities. Those skills allow him to be successful in zone entries. Suni also provides an effective forecheck, and his puck possession skills are above average.
The negative aspects of his game are that he isn`t overly creative and has limited offensive upside. Additionally, Suni needs to add strength to have success at higher levels.
Oskar Magnusson
2019-2020 Club: Malmo Redhawks J20 (SuperElit)
Position: W/C
Height: 5’10” Weight: 165 lbs
A nice blend of speed and agility make versatile Swedish forward Oskar Magnusson a compelling prospect. His 48 points in 38 games are a testament to his offensive ability. Magnusson represented Sweden at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and partook in four SHL games this past season. However, he didn`t register a point at either of those encounters. His ability to change the angle of his shot and a quick release make him a goal-scoring threat at the junior level. Magnusson has a solid work ethic, a responsible defensive game, and is a capable penalty killer.
Once again, size and strength are a concern, and both need to improve to have future success.
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These are just some of the prospects that may be available to the Canucks if they are looking to add to their prospect pool depth on the wings.