Player Discussion Mattias Samuelsson, LHD, Hurt Again

[Chainshot]

Mattias Samuelsson.

FC #38

Another product of the U.S. National Development Team, this is one big blueliner. Not particularly flashy, Samuelsson is an effective two-way player. Even though top-end speed is not his forte, his skating is good enough once he gets going to allow him to keep pace with play. His asset, not surprisingly, is his shut-down work. His size is an obvious strength, but his ability to deploy that gift is exceptional. Adept at using his stick or his body, no matter how much traffic and commotion, he can alleviate pressure. Rarely puts himself out of position. His defensive game is what makes him a highly-regarded prospect. Keeps things simple and within his abilities. Oneon-one, few blueliners are as highly regarded in the draft class. Exceptional gap control. Incredibly poised. Willing to sacrifice to keep pucks out of his net. But he’s not all defense. He possesses got hockey sense and vision, meaning he is able to make strong choices moving the puck or putting it on net. To go with his over-sized dimensions, the Voorhees, N.J., native is also a character presence. A leader for the U.S. squad for whom he collected 14 points and 64 penalty minutes in 23 appearances. In 2016-17, a season split between the U-17 and U-18 sides, Samuelsson managed 10 points in 30 outings. Plenty of upside on display here.

Click to read more...

 

[Chainshot]

No speculation, just opening it up.

 

[old kummelweck]

I thought the draft started at 11 AM? Is that central?

 

[LastWordArmy]

Scouting

Mattias Samuelsson Scouting Report: 2018 NHL Draft #32

 

[couture23]

Damn he's a big boy.

He's going to Western Michigan.

 

[Burgmania]

Mattias Samuelsson it is. USNTDP - 6'4"; 218.

My first reaction:

That is an ABSOLUTE UNIT.

 

[CaptPantalones]

I like it. Really loved everything I read about him

 

[Sabreality]

cool, that works too

 

[Dietpepsi]

Big Defenceman.. works for me

 

[couture23]

Mattias Samuelsson it is. USNTDP - 6'4"; 218.

My first reaction:

That is an ABSOLUTE UNIT.

In awe at the size of this lad

 

[Slangston]

Excellent pick.

 

[Gabrielor]

Big, and skates well

 

[tsujimoto74]

Dual Swedish-US citizen? Perfect for Buffalo.

 

[MackAttack26]

Like it. Hurts seeing Berggren going one pick later though.

But I guess this really helps our D depth, which is still needed.

 

[debaser66]

I guess nobody guessed we would pick him.

 

[Capslock17]

I wanted them to take the Drury kid

 

[stokes84]

Don't love it. Better players available. Oh well, prove me wrong.

 

[joshjull]

 

[jBuds]

Is he definitely College committed? I thought he was entertaining the CHL routes

 

[Capslock17]

Swedish Tyler Myers? Sweet.

 

[Reddawg]

Like it. Hurts seeing Berggren going one pick later though.

But I guess this really helps our D depth, which is still needed.

Really hurts hearing the talking heads call him a more skilled Arvidsson. I would have preferred Berggren but it's done now.

 

[1TuchAnd1NoTuch]

Not a huge fan but oh well hopefully he turns out

 

[1972]

Bode Wilde, Jared McIsaac and Samuelson were the three best remaining D. I think we are going to be glad we went D here.

 

[Tatanka]

If he is half of his dad he will be a pain in the arse to play against.

 

[joshjull]

Is he definitely College committed? I thought he was entertaining the CHL routes

I believe Western Michigan to play with his brother.