There is a reason they kept him up over Rosen. His defensive chops are very solid, and he isn’t deficient at ES.
Another 20 games getting up to speed offensively and he will settle in nicely
Very smart hockey player, already has a ton of pro attributes, great attention to the details of the game particularly on the defensive side of the puck, and one of the few Sabres who knows how to play in the middle of the ice. When he gets stronger and has an adult body it will help him a lot along the boards. The limiting factor with him will probably be his offense, but that’s okay. At 16OA you don’t expect a 1C. A great two way middle six center is an amazing outcome relative to his draft position. If Norris ever comes back I hope he slides to the wing and Östlund sticks at center.
I’ve been pretty high on Ostlund as a prospect for a bit now so I’m not surprised
Happy to be wrong about Rosen too if he can stick to the NHL
I remember watching Sweden at the last WJC he was at and thought his playmaking and style of play on the ice looked more NHL ready. He doesn’t seem hesitant and always seems in position to make the right play
I had no idea Ostlund was so good on D. I just assume Swedish players are here for their offense. He is always backchecking, maybe the best at backchecking on the team its much needed.
He’s absolutely gifted and plays a smart game. He needs to build strength as he’s weak in battles. Biggest issue as a C is face offs….he was 1-10 last night. That won’t cut it. Another area where strength is necessary.
6 comments
There is a reason they kept him up over Rosen. His defensive chops are very solid, and he isn’t deficient at ES.
Another 20 games getting up to speed offensively and he will settle in nicely
Very smart hockey player, already has a ton of pro attributes, great attention to the details of the game particularly on the defensive side of the puck, and one of the few Sabres who knows how to play in the middle of the ice. When he gets stronger and has an adult body it will help him a lot along the boards. The limiting factor with him will probably be his offense, but that’s okay. At 16OA you don’t expect a 1C. A great two way middle six center is an amazing outcome relative to his draft position. If Norris ever comes back I hope he slides to the wing and Östlund sticks at center.
I’ve been pretty high on Ostlund as a prospect for a bit now so I’m not surprised
Happy to be wrong about Rosen too if he can stick to the NHL
I remember watching Sweden at the last WJC he was at and thought his playmaking and style of play on the ice looked more NHL ready. He doesn’t seem hesitant and always seems in position to make the right play
I had no idea Ostlund was so good on D. I just assume Swedish players are here for their offense. He is always backchecking, maybe the best at backchecking on the team its much needed.
He’s absolutely gifted and plays a smart game. He needs to build strength as he’s weak in battles. Biggest issue as a C is face offs….he was 1-10 last night. That won’t cut it. Another area where strength is necessary.