G Arttu Ruotsalainen, Vaasa Sport U 20 (2018 NHL Draft Not Selected)

[Jersey Fan 12]

Saw him mentioned in a 2018 post by @Tormentor. I didn't realize he was briefly playing in the US last year.

His size seems intriguing. Is there any long-term potential for developing into a pro goalie?

Click to read more...

 

[Tormentor]

Can anyone make statements with certainty about netminders when a Zamboni-driver (Antti Niemi) can develop into a Stanley Cup champion?

Someone brave might still argue that Ruotsalainen has enough athletic ability and upside to go alongside with his big frame. That being said, it’s difficult to say whether he has the right kind of mindset or if he’s getting enough support to build his game, and it would certainly be nice to see him start taking some clear steps forward for a change. The good thing is that he’s finally getting consistent ice time and facing plenty of challenging situations, which should serve his development.

Henrik Tikkanen was drafted from the same age group recently as a 2nd year eligible after basically struggling two full season in U20 league while playing behind a strong team, so what the current results are and what someone perceives as long term upside or potential can be somewhat different things.