Iivari Rasanen (4 Star Amateur Rating, NHL Grade — C+) Defense
(1) Brain – Iivari is a smart two way defender who can impact the game at both ends of the rink. He consistently does the little things right. Whether it be as simple as keeping his stick on the ice to deter passing and shooting lanes or as complicated as spinning off the wall during contact to maintain net side positioning he is a reliable defender who coaches can depend on.
(2) Vision & Poise – Without the puck his head is on a swivel and he sees plays developing early. With the puck he has a low panic point and makes very quick outlets in transition.
(3) Feet – Iivari has a powerful backwards ‘C’ push and can match speeds with with quick forwards. He moves well laterally and has a very strong base. We feel Iivari will need to continue developing his explosiveness while at Quinnipiac to enhance his long term upside.
(4) Compete & Effort – He is a hardworking honest player.
(5) Contact or Physicality – Iivari has a strong base that allows him to withstand a heavy forecheck and still make clean outlet passes. He boxes out in front of his net and does not allow rebound opportunities to occur. We have seen him knock numerous players on their backside after challenging him in 1 on 1 situations.
(6) Release – He has a quick release that hits the net and generates rebounds. He does not need to dust the puck before moving it. His passes are flat and east to handle.
(7) One Timer Ability – Iivari brings it with authority off of any type of pass. His shots give goalies issues with rebound control.
(8) Body Language – Plain and simple, he is a leader. Iivari has worn a letter for Finland in numerous International competitions and we feel he will wear a letter in North America too.
(9) Special Teams Potential – His hockey IQ and anticipation will allow him to kill penalties at a very high level. We do not see him as a first unit power play option, but he will get looks as a shooter on a second unit.
(10) Intangibles – This is new, but NHL teams will be asking. His older Aapeli just left Boston College to go home to Finland to play professionally rather than signing with the team that holds his NHL rights, Edmonton. Scouting directors will want to know what will happen if they draft Iivari. Maybe his brother left to force a trade, maybe he thought the Oilers depth chart is too deep or maybe he just wants to go home and play for Tappara, but either way NHL teams will be asking about his brother.
Photo Credit: Iivari Rasanen Twitter ( @Iivarirasanen )