2011 Draft Prospect: Nicklas Jensen

(picture courtesy of ontariohockeyleague.com)

Statistics (2010-2011): Oshawa (OHL): 61GP 29G 29A 58P +14

The 6'3" power forward from Oshawa is the next great dane. He had an impressive regular season finishing 5th in OHL rookie scoring. Not only that, but he has had a great playoffs so far with four goals and two assists for six points in five games thus far. Although his numbers aren't earth shattering, he has a very late birthday on March 6th which makes scouts wonder if he is just starting to show his full potential. He had dominated with his U20 club and put up unreal numbers but hasn't been the offensive dynamo many were expecting. Jensen is a very strong and powerful skater for a bigger forward and has the hands to go with it. He is a great two way player and doesn't rely on the powerplay to produce.

Still, the left winger is projected to be a top 20 pick in this years upcoming draft but probably won't crack the top ten. His production could be lower because a player like Christian Thomas is given most of the quality icetime. On the other hand though, his secondary role in juniors worries me. I see him as a solid NHL player but still doubt his overall offensive ceiling. I think he has accomplished quite a lot already and give the kid props coming over to the CHL but isn't the ideal fit for the Oilers at this point. Having said that, this video makes me think whoever drafts him will be VERY happy.