The New York Islanders seem to average at least one Finnish player per year. This year, I propose that for their second first-round pick, they take a look at Juho Piiparinen. The defender plays with fellow projected first-rounder Oliver Suvanto for Tappara in the Finnish Liiga. He’s mobile but defense-minded. Seems like something that would appeal to the Islanders.
He’s a physical guy who knows how to use that physicality productively, which, for me personally, is a separating factor for prospects. Other highlights include strong stick work, smart gap control, and composure under pressure, which isn’t easy to teach. He played in four games at the recent World Juniors, and I have to say I didn’t notice him much—except when he was shutting down players like Cole Eiserman and Anton Frondell. Which is exactly what you want from his style of play.
