Toronto's Top Defensive Prospect: Topi Niemela

Topi Niemela. What comes to mind when you hear his name? Niemela, is a star player playing for Karpat of the SM-Liiga in Finland. The Maple Leafs acquired Niemela during the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, he was selected 64th overall.

Niemela is a two-way defenceman that has played in the top leagues throughout the Finnish junior and pro system. Niemela's name really broke out at the 2020-21 IIHF World Junior Classic. The Finnish defender was second on his team in points with eight and was a named Defenceman of the Tournament. He and Team Finland ended up taking home a bronze medal.


This past season, Niemela, spent the entire season with Karpat playing at the professional level. Niemela was the top d-man on his team, as just a 20-year-old. Remember the Liiga is a top professional league, he is playing against competition much older and mature then his age. 

Niemela played in 48 games, scoring ten goals and assisting 22 plays. He was also invited back to the WJC and wore the "A", for Finland. Where he commanded the first d-pair, quarterbacked the power play and played a role on the penalty kill.

What makes Niemela such a highly rated prospect? He is a player that has all the aspects needed to play against high competition. He is a reliable player and makes smart decisions with and without the puck. He is capable playing any role with his team. Offensively, he is a player that likes to join in on the rush. He has a hard shot, that he utilizes regularity on the power play or even strength.  Defensively, Niemela, is hard on the puck, he breaks out the puck well. He plays a physical game and is not afraid to get into scrums. He is a smooth skater and is capable in different scenarios.

Toronto signed Niemela to his entry-level contract earlier this year. It is likely that Niemela, will be loaned back to Finland for the upcoming 2022-23 season.