Future Considerations’ Swedish-based scout Patrik Hansen gives his thoughts on who from the 2015 NHL Draft class left him impressed, who disappointed and who his sleeper is on draft day.

Who Impressed?

Kevin Stenlund showed some great determination and passion for the game coming back from two knee injuries the past two years. His hockey sense and skill set has always been there but his development has been a little bit on hold due to the injuries. Great guy who doesn’t hesitate to show his teammates what it takes to be successful by either blocking a shoot or set up a play. Uses his big body in such a smart way covering the puck. Still maybe a little behind on his skating but thanks to the determination and passion he shown up before I am sure he will work on his skating this upcoming season.

Who Disappointed?

Due to the expectations, I would have to say Oliver Kylington. I was hoping Kylington would established himself as an SHL-defenseman, and be a guy for the Top-5 in this summers draft. Instead, he struggled and didn’t seem happy playing junior or spending time on the bench in SHL, so he went to AIK in SHL-2 and started to drop on the ranking. Nothing comes for free at this level and it seemed like he took his spot in SHL for granted. He’s still a great talent with amazing mobility and offensive upside, and if he can get all his things together, he can be a steal tor the team that picks him up mid-late in the first round.

Who Surprised?

For me, I really didn’t know a lot about AIK´s Robin Kovacs before this season started. Now, he’s coming of a really impressive season winning ”Guldgallret” as the best junior in SHL2 after putting up 17 goals last season. He became a impact player for his struggling team AIK thanks to his scoring determination and ability to get under his opponents skin. For Kovacs, the transition from juniors to the big leagues wasn’t a problem and it shows that he has the skill, sense and determination to take the next step. Apart from his regular season in SHL2 he also had an impressive U19 tournament in Gothenburgh scoring four goals and two assist in four games and named best forward of the tournament.