The NHL Entry Draft is just 1 week away, so we’ll get as many of these in as possible before that date.
Emil Hemming
Position: Right Wing
Shoots: Right
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 200lbs
Over the course of 40 games for TPS in the Liiga this year, Hemming scored 7 goals and 11pts, which is impressive for a 17 year old that was thrust into a depth role. He’s a sturdy player that’s very hard to knock off the puck and he possesses a solid shot and one-timer. It’s his shot that will be his calling card if he can make the leap to the NHL, but his skating is also above average. He has great edges and although he isn’t the fastest at full speed, he gets up to that speed quickly enough. His cycle game and ability to play along the walls is going to make his coach’s happy.
While his shot is very good, he’ll need to work on his playmaking and be more commanding in front of the net. He isn’t a waste on the defensive side of the puck, but like so many young players he’ll have to work on that aspect of his game as well. Lastly, he’s known to be somewhat inconsistent in his effort levels, so if he can up his intensity from game to game he’ll make all the teams that passed on him look silly.
While Hemming has a great package of physical skills, it’s his inconsistencies that will keep him from going in the top half of the 1st round. He may even fall to the late 1st, but don’t be surprised if he’s already off the board when the Leafs pick at #23. He likely projects to be a 3rd or 4th line NHLer that can wear down opponents physically over the course of a game, but he brings top 6 potential and can score goals, which is the hardest thing to do in the NHL.