Teemu Pulkkinen (Credit: Antti Romsi, www.romsi.net)
Statistical accolades continue to pile up for Detroit Red Wings prospect Teemu Pulkkinen.
The hard-shooting Finnish winger played his final junior-aged international tournament earlier this month, enjoying great success at the world junior championship in Alberta with six goals and four assists in seven games.
Combining all of his IIHF numbers at two WJCs and two under-18 championships, the 5-foot-11, 183-pounder finished with astounding numbers — 26 goals and 24 assists for 50 points in just 25 games.
It’s believed those totals are unmatched by any player from any country in the world in his age group.
“He’s a kid who can score goals and that’s his game,” said Mark Leach, who was among a contingent of Red Wings scouts who watched Pulkkinen at the WJC. “He’s got to continue to do that to be successful.”
Pulkkinen has put up numbers at every level he’s played to date. Last season, he was just one point shy of a point-per-game pace in his first full Finnish SM-Liiga season with Helsinki Jokerit. He’s not far off the mark this season.
He has 13 goals and 16 assists for 29 points 38 games, but 10 of those points have come in the past seven contests and he has four goals in his past four games since returning from the WJC.
Pulkkinen, who has a stocky build and is a right-handed shot, lurks around the offensive zone a la Brett Hull and has incredible shooting ability.
He also has an insatiable hunger to score. In one game at the WJC, he scored four consecutive third-period goals in a blowout against Denmark and added a fifth just after the final buzzer sounded. He could be seen pleading with the officials to review the goal.
“He loves to shoot the puck and he can really shoot it,” Leach said. “He’s always in the right position. He’s a dangerous player from the tops of the circles down. His skating is not one of his best assets, but the one thing he has is the ability to score goals.”
Aside from Pulkkinen’s skating, he needs to continue to show a willingness to go into traffic as he moves up the ranks. More importantly, he needs to be more well-rounded.
“At the next level, you have to back check, you have to play in your own end, because if you don’t, you won’t find yourself on the ice very much,” Leach said.
NOTES: Defenseman Ryan Sproul (Sault-Ste Marie, OHL) returned to the lineup sooner than expected after fracturing his jaw. He appeared in three games last week … Winger Marek Tvrdon (Vancouver, WHL) has been outstanding since representing Slovakia at the WJC, scoring four goals and nine assists for 13 points in seven games … Defenseman Xavier Ouellet (Blainville-Boisbriand, QMJHL) continues to fire on all cylinders with nine goals and 13 assists for 22 points and a plus-11 rating in his past 14 games … Forward Gustav Nyquist (Grand Rapids, AHL) will participate in the AHL’s all-star weekend in Atlantic City, N.J., on Sunday and Monday. He leads the Griffins with 37 points in 36 games.
Following is this week’s statistical report.
SKATERS: REGULAR-SEASON REPORT
| NAME | TEAM | LEVEL | LEAGUE | GP | G | A | P | PIM | +/- | SOG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coetzee, Willie | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 37 | 9 | 8 | 17 | 7 | 0 | 86 |
| Ferraro, Landon | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 32 | 6 | 7 | 13 | 27 | 0 | 42 |
| Nyquist, Gustav | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 36 | 11 | 26 | 37 | 14 | -4 | 100 |
| Tatar, Tomas | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 40 | 12 | 20 | 32 | 31 | +2 | 129 |
| Andersson, Joakim | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 37 | 10 | 12 | 22 | 20 | +3 | 81 |
| Aubry, Louis-Marc | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 31 | 4 | 4 | 8 | 19 | -4 | 53 |
| Callahan, Mitchell | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 29 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 67 | -1 | 38 |
| Ehrhardt, Travis | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 7 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 11 | +5 | 14 |
| Lashoff, Brian | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 40 | 7 | 5 | 12 | 21 | -8 | 59 |
| Pare, Francis | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 40 | 7 | 17 | 24 | 14 | -3 | 91 |
| Parkes, Trevor | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 28 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 15 | +1 | 47 |
| Raedeke, Brent | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 36 | 6 | 6 | 12 | 18 | 0 | 50 |
| Smith, Brendan | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 34 | 6 | 14 | 20 | 49 | +1 | 71 |
| Piche, Sebastien | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 18 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 13 | -6 | 15 |
| Pyett, Logan | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 39 | 1 | 15 | 16 | 26 | +1 | 101 |
| Nestrasil, Andrej | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 11 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 2 | -1 | 17 |
| Fournier, Gleason | Grand Rapids | PRO | AHL | 3 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Fournier, Gleason | Toledo | PRO | ECHL | 37 | 2 | 11 | 13 | 16 | -9 | 82 |
| Nestrasil, Andrej | Toledo | PRO | ECHL | 24 | 3 | 11 | 14 | 8 | -6 | 46 |
| Parkes, Trevor | Toledo | PRO | ECHL | 4 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 2 | +1 | 17 |
| Ouellet, Xavier | B.-Boisbriand | JR | QMJHL | 42 | 16 | 22 | 38 | 56 | -2 | 128 |
| Macek, Brooks | Calgary | JR | WHL | 42 | 11 | 20 | 31 | 19 | +7 | N/A |
| Nedomlel, Richard | Swift Current | JR | WHL | 48 | 4 | 21 | 25 | 60 | -22 | N/A |
| Tvrdon, Marek | Vancouver | JR | WHL | 41 | 18 | 32 | 50 | 28 | -3 | N/A |
| Sproul, Ryan | Sault Ste. Marie | JR | OHL | 40 | 10 | 17 | 27 | 41 | +15 | N/A |
| Quine, Alan | Peterborough | JR | OHL | 43 | 17 | 26 | 42 | 15 | -17 | N/A |
| Jurco, Tomas | Saint John | JR | QMJHL | 34 | 23 | 27 | 50 | 27 | +31 | 141 |
| Hudon, Philippe | Victoriaville | JR | QMJHL | 19 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 10 | -3 | 40 |
| Jensen, Nick | St. Cloud State | COL | NCAA | 26 | 5 | 14 | 19 | 2 | +7 | 47 |
| Nicastro, Max | Boston U. | COL | NCAA | 21 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 26 | 0 | 34 |
| Cayer, Julien | Clarkson | COL | NCAA | 21 | 6 | 3 | 9 | 28 | 0 | 36 |
| Marshall, Ben | Minnesota | COL | NCAA | 27 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 26 | +16 | 55 |
| Sheahan, Riley | Notre Dame | COL | NCAA | 23 | 7 | 14 | 21 | 16 | +1 | 80 |
| Pulkkinen, Teemu | Jokerit | EUR | FIN | 38 | 13 | 16 | 29 | 4 | +5 | 165 |
| Almqvist, Adam | HV-71 | EUR | SEL | 37 | 3 | 8 | 11 | 24 | +16 | N/A |
| Axelsson, Dick | MoDo | EUR | SEL | 27 | 9 | 9 | 18 | 53 | -6 | N/A |
| Jarnkrok, Calle | Brynas | EUR | SEL | 40 | 11 | 15 | 26 | 10 | -8 | N/A |
| Backman, Mattias | Linkoping | EUR | SEL | 30 | 1 | 6 | 7 | 12 | +6 | N/A |
| Marchenko, Alexei | CSKA Moscow | EUR | KHL | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | -3 | 2 |
GOALIES: REGULAR SEASON REPORT
| NAME | TEAM | LEAGUE | GP | W | L | O/S | SO | GAA | SV% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mrazek, Petr | Ottawa | OHL | 34 | 20 | 8 | 5 | 2 | 2.90 | .913 |
| Pearce, Jordan | Grand Rapids | AHL | 12 | 1 | 6 | 1 | 1 | 3.42 | .877 |
| McCollum, Thomas | Grand Rapids | AHL | 11 | 6 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 3.37 | .893 |
| McCollum, Thomas | Toledo | ECHL | 13 | 5 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 2.68 | .905 |
I just want to say “thank you” for this site. I look forward to every Wednesday finding out how possible future Wings are doing.
Same here. Love the site. I look forward to Wednesdays and really appreciate the work that goes into it.
I’ve got to echo the sentiment… I look for it every week and often can’t wait for it to come out, so I check on their stats myself. But, I love the articles — Absolutely unique and necessary reporting! Keep ‘em coming!
What’s your feeling on Pulkkinen’s transition to North America? I sort of feel like he could walk right into the NHL next year, but think Järnkrok might need to spend some time in GR to bulk up… And Marchenko – any word he’ll come to NA next year?
Am I correct to think Tatar still has a year or two of waiver exemption?
Do we feel Tvrdon and Jurco will both be in GR next year? Almquist, Oulette, Sproul? I thought Almquist was going to be in GR this year… Is he just loaned to SEL?
Ouellet*
Looking at him play in the WJC he looked a lot shorter than his listed 5’11, maybe more like 5’08 … reminded me of Hudler in stature, but large almost like Ciccerelli however, he played like Bret Hull sliding in and out of the slot, always ready to shoot. If I am not mistaken, i think they used him to kill some penalties. What was mind boggling was that the Finnish coach did not use him in the shootout in that final game. he likely won’t be in Detroit for another 4 years, but he looks like another draft steal.
And yes – i too love this site and have felt the same way about it for years. Great job.
With all the talent coming to GR that is if Pulkkinen and Jarnkrok come to NA next year the Redwings may have to start clearing up some space possibly during the trade deadline. And what is going to happen on goal next year in GR? McDonald, McCollum, Pearce and Mrazek something has to give. I would assume Pearce is first to go but then what Joey and Tommy in GR and Mrazek in Toledo? Thoughts?
Sheckman9:
Tatar is in the final year (3rd) of his entry level–two way–contract. He would be exposed to waivers if the Wings attempt to send him to GR next year. This is assuming the Wings do not trade him and resign him in the offseason of course. ALmquist just signed his entry level contract this season and he is coming to GR next season. Do the Wings leave Tvrdon in Jr because he pretty much missed all of last year due to injury?
I am anxious to see if Sheahan turns pro and then to see how his transition goes in GR. Additionally, I think Sproul is a true wild card. He could develope into something nasty with offense; like a Shea Weber Jr. Lastly, Danny Dykaiser is going to be an undrafted college defenseman looking for a contract this summer. The Wings had him at their prospects tournament. Hopefully they are able to sign him. He plays college hockey in MIchigan. I am painfully typing this thing on my iPhone and I cannot look him up for proper spelling and school.
11B3PF7, I thought he signed at 18 yrs. old though… That would give him 5 years. Or if he was 19 – 4 years…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NHL_salary_cap
Levi, I agree… Seems like a log-jam at GR. But it also seems that with a focus on player development and drafting even stronger than before the CBA, that they’re stacking Toledo a lot more… I could see McCollum going to Toledo and Pearce getting back to his other career.
RW19, granted a suggestion that Pulkkinen could walk right onto the DRW may be overzealous, four years seems an underestimate of a player that is performing at his level.
Or, maybe Mac moves on and McCollum and Mrazek fight over GR.
Tatar still has a year where he can be sent down without being exposed to waivers. MacDonald is signed for another year where he’s guarenteed 550k so I highly doubt he looks to play elsewhere.
Keep up the great work here. This site has become a regular on my sports news browsing.
Tatar does have one more season where he could be sent down without waivers. I don’t think he’s quite ready to make he jump yet, his skating could still use some work. Tvardon looks like a draft steal, I watched a Giants game last week and he can dominate the o-zone down low once he gets going. Very Marian Hossa, I dig it.
I heard it would likely be McCollum and Mrazek in GR next season (since Joe Mac has a one way deal I guess the Wings will give him every opportunity to make the club next season).
Pullkinen has a few years of maturing left, needs to work on his skating and defensive game. If he’s ready he’ll join Grand Rapids next season.
The wings will definitely WANT jarnkrok and pulkkinen in grand rapids next year, but It’s up to them if they want to come. They are both ready. They each have 2 1/2 years of pro experience in some of the best pro leagues in the world and will be 21 next season. They also have been the top 2 scorers for their teams the last 2 years…they are ready for the ahl.
as much as i would love to see Pulkkinen in a wings jersey soon.its gonna be a while if ever, the guy can score no doubt but he has to improve his two way play (he dosnt always play like he did against Sweden) and needs to work really hard on improving his skating. then we will see an NHL player until then the best he is to us is a a good bargaining chip for trades. not saying thiis to be a downer i love this guy and have been high on him since the 2010 draft but its the truth.
I believe Pulkkinen will develop greatly. He’s still just a kid, really. He has talent, love of the game, and a drive to win. He entered the Finnish league as an offensive tip of the spear type of player, but as he is establishing himself as a top forward the coach will start to rely on him in every aspect of the game. When he comes to Detroit he’ll likely get a locker next to Fil, who’s a fantastic role model for a young Finnish forward. And we’ve seen the value of Larionov’s mentoring of Pavel, Osgood’s of Jimmy, Draper’s of Helmer.
@Levi…Mrazek looks like the real deal, almost certainly has the higher fueling thatn McCullom now that he’s been so bad as a pro. Pearce has been terrible and never really had the ceiling that would lead him to be a NHL player.If McCullom stinks it up the rest of the year, it will probably be Mrazek and Macdonald in Toledo with McCullom either gone or rotting in Toledo.
The scouts quotes on Pulkkinen suggest that they’re not super thrilled with the rest of his game outside of shooting which makes me think it will be a couple tears at least in the A until he comes up. I think the fact that Jarnkrok, Pulkkinen, and Almqvist have. Been playing against men for a couple years already will most likely fast track their development. The Griffins could be absolutely stacked next year though. Tatar, Pulkkinen, Almqvist, Ferraro, Mrazek, Aubry, Tvrdon, Jurco, Ouellett, Sproul, and Callahan could all be on the team. That’s assuming Andersson, Smith, and Nyquist all stick with the Wings. Pretty sweet.
Tvrdon ouellett and sproul are too young to be in the ahl next yer. Jurco has an odd birthdate which is why he is eligible. Tatars entry level contract ends this year so I assume that means he has to clear waivers next year to be sent down. Andersson has another year of ahl eligibility, so he will be in GR.
I like Pulkkinen’s chances of succeeding in the NHL. We gambled on him, even if he was a 4th round choice. He destroyed all the junior leagues he played in, but had 2 pretty serious injuries prior to and during his draft year, and we didn’t know if he would be able to compete at a high enough level. I’d say he’s answered those questions pretty firmly. He was great last year, and he went through a bit of a slump this year, but has been on fire since the WJC, and is on pace to eclipse last year’s goal totals.
Saying a prospect needs to learn defense, should not scare anyone away from Pulkkinen, as most high scoring prospects need to learn defense. The kid has talent, and I think it’s safe to say he is more than capable of learning to play the other side of the puck, especially in our system. From what I’ve read, his skating critique depends on who you ask, but remember, Zetterberg isn’t a great skater either. The kid just turned 20 this month, so it’s not like he is running out of time or anything.
Honestly, worst case scenario, I could see Pulkkinen making his NHL debut at the same age Pavel did, which I believe was about 23 (someone correct me if I’m wrong). It’s not super young, but it gives him time to get some experience before he reaches his prime. With one year left on his deal in Finland, giving him a couple years in GR is certainly doable. Personally, I think the kid is gonna be great.
The Wings HAVE to trade some prospects at the deadline or lose them. There is NO WAY that Tatar, Andersson and Nyquist all make the team. The Wings like to bring up prospects one or two at a time. It’s also time to trade Brunnstrom. Cut your losses on McCollum. JMac WILL backup Jimmeh in 12-13. But Mrazek is Howard’s future backup, possible successor.
I also think the Wings will trade some picks. GR is definitely going to be stacked next year, but I doubt Pulkinnen or Jarnkrok come over unless they make the Show at least for 12-13.
I CAN tell you this: Almost every team in the NHL wants Smith, Nyquist and Pulkinnen.
Andersson and nyquist don’t have to clear waivers next year..so I wouldn’t be surprised to see them both in GR. Remember the wings don’t like to rush prospects.
Wingman56, I didn’t see where there was an age requirement for the AHL. Where’d you hear that?
If the Wings liked Mac enough to be an NHL backup for next year, he’d be there already. I’m doubtful.
Tatar, Nyquist, and Andersson all are waiver-exempt next year as far as I can tell… Who ISN’T waiver exempt next year? Anyone?
Sheckman,
There’s a rule that states if a player is drafted out of one of the three leagues that make up the CHL (OHL, QMJHL, or WHL) that they cannot play in the AHL until they are 20. So basically, they’re either making the NHL team or going back to juniors. As wingman said though, Jurco has a late birthday, so he would in fact be eligible next year.
That age rule was put in place so that the Canadian junior teams can keep their best players for a little bit longer, but honestly it could prove to be a waste of time. Some players are too good to stay in juniors, but not quite NHL level. So, they either have to start in the NHL before they are ready, or play in a league where they have nothing left to prove, and probably won’t grow much as a player.
I’m not sure why everyone thinks Tatar is waiver exempt next year. His 3 year entry level contract expires this year, so if he’s re-signed that would make him waiver eligible next year. Right? Or am I missing something.
Wingman. I believe that Tatar had an entry level slide in the first two years of his contract (something that allowed the contract to extend each year he did not play a minimum amount of NHL games). Usually there is just one year, but because he was signed so young, he got two. I am not 100% positive, but if you want to know for sure, take a look at the capgeek chart (accessible on the Redwings Central home page). When you click on Tomas Tatar, it will give a season by season break down. I am pretty sure he still has two years left on his entry level contract.
Here is the URL
http://www.capgeek.com/players/display.php?id=1578
Sheckman stated it correctly up above and the wiki link explains why he is still exempt from waivers next season. The reason for the entry-level slide and extension of his waiver exemption is that they didn’t have to sign his entry-level as early as they did.
Thanks guys, for the explanation of the 20 year old thing to do with the CHL leagues… that applies to both the AHL and the ECHL, I presume?
Correct. You can be under 20 and play pro, but you have to play 4 seasons of major junior.
Wingman, that is correct if you’ve played major junior. If you don’t have any major junior requirement you can start in the AHL and ECHL once you are 18. That’s why Tatar started at 18 since he had played in Europe and technically Sheehan could have played in the AHL after his first season at Notre Dame since he had never played major junior so that he could be eligible for NCAA hockey.