Team: TPS U16
Position: C
Birthdate: 9th February 2000
Height: 6’1
Weight: 187 lbs
NHL Draft Eligible: 2018
2000 born forward Oskari Rauhala had a respectable last season for TPS U16, scoring at over point-per-game pace while being one of the youngest players on the team. This season he has been one of the team’s key players. TPS U16 will be in the semi-finals after beating Jokerit twice – first 6-0 in Helsinki and 7-5 in Turku yesterday. Rauhala was one of the best players in the second game.
Rauhala is one of the most intriguing centers at the U16 level thanks to his combination of skill and size. He already knows how to use his 6’1 frame to his advantage. Strong along the boards and down low while protecting the puck, making him efficient in the cycle game. He’s also sharp without the puck, applying consistently pressure on puck carrier and being good on puck retrievals.
He has very good hands for someone of his size and can make some fine passes in traffic areas and near the crease. Rauhala also possesses a hard, accurate wrist shot with a very quick release. An area that needs some refining is his skating, which often takes some time with bigger players. However, his agility, backwards skating and overall mobility have definitely improved over the course of the season. Still not the fastest player on the ice – however, his speed has also got better and it’s another good sign for the future.