McKeens: 52nd
A late birthday, Davidsson spent the majority of his draft eligible season playing in
the SHL with Djurgardens, his first extended action skating against adults. Like the
overwhelming majority of European teenagers first season facing adults, his numbers
did not overwhelm. In his case, it was due to a tangible split between his first half
production and the let-down that was his second half, with only a solitary assist coming
after Christmas.
A quiet player, the versatile forward’s most notable trait is his hockey sense. He reads
the game very well, particularly in the offensive zone, and gets himself into good spots
to cause trouble. He does not hesitate when it comes time to make a decision and does
not take unnecessary risks. Looking at his skating, shooting and puck play, all project as
above average, but none as much more than that. If, as is often the case, his second half
slowdown was a matter of adjusting to the higher pace and more physical (more tiring)
aspects of adult league hockey, I would expect greater contributions in the coming years.
Considering that only one other U19 skater put more points than Davidsson in the SHL
(Lias Andersson), there is every reason to expect bigger things in his future. That would
start with a respectable slot somewhere in the second round of the draft, continuing on
to a spot representing Sweden at next year’s WJC, and good numbers in his sophomore
SHL season. When he finally comes over to North America, he projects as a valuable
middle six forward who can be counted on in all situations at maturity.
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