Juraj Slafkovský was selected first-overall by the Montreal Canadiens, this past draft. The move shocked part of the hockey world, as projected first-overall pick Shane Wright, slipped to four overall. Like many highly projected players, Slafkovský will feel the pressure this season after being selected first-overall.
Did the Montreal Canadiens make the right selection, by passing on Shane Wright? After, a brief analysis of Slafkovský's game, you can see why the Habs chose the Slovakian winger. Slafkovský is a big, power-forward standing at 6-foot-4-inches and weighing 218 pounds.
Slafkovský outperformed Shane Wright this past season. The Slovakian native, suited up TPS Turku of the Finnish Liiga, while also representing Team Slovakia at numerous international events. Slafkovský played well in the Liiga putting up 10 points in 31 games. Slafkovský fit in playing against much older, more mature competition.
Slafkovský caught NHL scouts eyes mainly when he was playing with Team Slovakia at numerous international events. First, we got to establish that Slovakia isn't a hockey powerhouse, making Slafkovský's offensive numbers even more impressive.
At the junior levels, the winger played at the U18, Ivan Hlinka Tournament. In five games, the Habs pick put up an impressive three goals and six assists in five games.
Slafkovský also played at the Olympics and World Championships (both men tournaments). While at the Olympics, Slafkovský scored seven goals, in seven games, helping Slovakia take home a bronze medal. And playing at the World Championships, the winger could not be slowed down potting in nine points, in just eight games.
A comparison to Wright, shows that Slafkovský is a more developed, mature player, although both have similar potentials.
Season Projections:
Slafkovský will almost certainly make the Montreal Canadiens roster, this upcoming season. The power forward has all the tools to become a first-line, offensive player one day. Although, as of this season, Slafkovský, is projected to have a 35-45 point season.