Valtteri Puustinen

Born: 1999-06-04

Team: HPK (Liiga)

Position: Left Wing / Right Wing

Shoots: Right

Height / Weight: 5-9 / 183

2019-2020 SEASON REPORT

Puustinen had a breakout season as a second-year pro with HPK in the Liiga. He finished second on the team in points (40) and was tied for the team lead in goals (17). He got a well-deserved promotion to the Finnish national team and scored one goal in a three-game tournament in December. The 5’9″ winger has many good elements in his game. He is very crafty offensively and has a lot of puck skill. He has the ability to make unpredictable plays that catch defensemen and goalies off guard. As an example, he scored a highlight-reel, between-the-legs goal which showed off his creativity with the puck. He is smart and does not force the game – he takes what is given to him. He reads the game at a high level. Puustinen is a strong skater with a quick first step and good initial burst. The Pittsburgh Penguins seventh rounder is an intriguing prospect who has a chance to exceed the expectations of his draft position.

Cover photo: Ville-Veikko Kaakinen