Laine to represent Finland at World Cup

Aaron Vickers2016 Draft Center, Europe, Tournaments & Events

Patrik Laine will have a busy summer ahead of him.

After starring for Finland at the IIHF 2016 World Championship, the 18-year-old prospect for the 2016 NHL Draft will suit up for his country again this September at the World Cup of Hockey.

He was among seven additions to Finland’s roster.

Laine, second in Future Considerations’ ranking for the 2016 NHL Draft, led Finland with seven goals, three power-play goals, and tied Mikael Granlund of the Minnesota Wild with 12 points in 10 games. The Tampere, Finland native, who is expected to participate in the NHL Draft Combine May 30-June 4, helped his country to a silver medal and was named the tournament’s most valuable player and best forward.

“He proved at the World Championship that he is already a top player,” Future Considerations scout Jonathan Luomala said. “Laine being named to the World Cup team should not come as a surprise as he will be a great NHL player that should a lot of ice time already next season. What made him such a lock is of course his goal scoring ability, but also his winning mentality and confidence on the ice, something that was useful for Finland at the World Championship, and will be useful at the World Cup.”

Laine had 17 goals and 33 points in 46 regular season games, and was named the recipient of the Jari Kurri Trophy as the most valuable player in the Liiga playoffs. He recorded 10 goals and 15 points in 18 games to help Tappara to the Kanada-malja for the first time since 2003.

He also helped Finland to gold at the 2016 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Finland made their first 16 roster selections on March 2.