Here are scouting reports on two standout prospects from U16 game HIFK – HPK.
HPK got the lead in the first period with power play goals from Samppa Saarinen and Anton Sihvonen. HIFK tied the game at 2-2 in the second period, but HPK had the lead after two periods with Sihvonen scoring his second of the game. HPK had a 4-2 lead with less than five minutes left in the third. However, HIFK came back as both Leo Ring and Christoffer Sedoff scored and the game was headed to overtime. At 63:00, Marcus Kallionkieli scored the 5-4 goal for HIFK after scoring chances at both ends during the overtime.
01 F Marcus Kallionkieli – HIFK U16: The best player of the game scored two assists and the game-winner in overtime. He created several scoring chances on the penalty kill in the first period. Most importantly, he has the tools to develop into a really solid player down the road. He uses his strong edge work to maneuver into the offensive zone and also has a second gear to pull away from defensemen. He constantly plays at a high pace. He’s got good hockey sense and protects the puck effectively. Very quick, deceptive wrist shot that can beat goalies. He can hang onto the puck in the offensive zone for long stretches because he keeps his feet moving and has good hands – however, certain times he could use his teammates more, although I wouldn’t consider this a big flaw in his game.
02 D Christoffer Sedoff – HIFK U16: Scored the 4-4 tying goal on the last minute in the third period with a great point shot. Sedoff’s offensive game is really polished. While he has showed he can carry the puck up the ice, I’d consider him more of a puck moving defenseman than a puck rusher. His accurate long passes consistently allowed forwards to enter the offensive zone. Highly patient with the puck and processes the game well under pressure. He can sneak in from the blueline and does it in a timely manner. He is very mobile, shows fluid lateral agility and strong backwards skating. He can improve his defensive game and gap control, but now he played more physically in the defensive zone than in some other viewings. All in all, Sedoff is a very promising defender logging plenty of minutes while playing one year up.