Monday, June 13, 2016

Top Prospect Signings (Jun 13)

If the rookie scoring pool makes its return to the draft next season, you may want to consider Carolina forward Sebastian Aho, who signed his 3-year entry-level deal.  Aho was highlighted in the Hurricanes' Pool Outlook last month, as one to watch.  Aho has showcased himself well in international tournaments and then will get a chance to debut in North America before joining the NHL, when he plays for Finland at the NHL/PA World Cup.

The 2015 2nd round pick was a point a game player in the Finnish Elite League last season, 45 points in 45 games, leading his team in scoring.  He's still only 18 years old and he's only 5'10" tall, but his offensive upside is pretty high right now.  Keep an eye on this one, for sure.

The Hurricanes were not done there either, signing another Finnish prospect, forward Aleksi Saarela, to his entry-level deal.  Saarela was a 2015 3rd round pick by the Rangers, acquired by Carolina in the Eric Staal deal.  The 19-year old Finn had 20 goals in the Finnish Elite League as well, playing for Assat Pori, ranking 3rd on the team in points.  The Canes were pleased with their return in the Staal deal, so Saarela will be an interesting prospect to see in camp.

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