None of these are really eye-popping numbers at this level, at least for forwards, so is it fair to say that as of now Simontaival is the only really elite forward prospect in this birth year?
Luckily eye-popping numbers in C-SM aren't a requirement for a NHL career. We know that for example Teuvo Teräväinen and Mikko Rantanen "only" scored a point per game in C-SM as U15 players.
I'm thinking Aatu Räty could perhaps develop into a Erik Haula type of player, but we might have to wait a little longer for him to truly impress since he's a November birthdate (=10months younger than Simontaival).
As far as Simontaival goes, he's certainly an elite player in this age group right now, but does that automatically make him an elite prospect? I mean most of these small starlet wingers never really pan out. It's worth noting that Artturi Lehkonen is our only sub-6-feet guy in the NHL right now who's a pure winger.
Also, has anyone seen the two D-men Sedoff and/or Ketonen? How about Karpat D-man Kasper Puutio, who had a higher points per game than either Sedoff and Ketonen in league play?
Christoffer Sedoff has the frame, athletic ability, skating, skill and smarts to become a very good defenseman. Hopefully he stays healthy and has the desire and work ethic required to reach the top.
Ruben Rafkin seems like a rather intriguing prospect as well and he has some nice tools, but some aspects of his game were a slight disappointment at Pohjola camp. Turned the puck over a few too many times and at times looked a bit lost in the defensive zone.