Jimi Junkkari

U18: 5 Nation Tournament, November 8-14, 2022:  In our viewings of Jimi we found him to be an excellent quick puck moving defensive defenseman. He alread has a pro frame at 6’2 and just needs a few pounds and some strength at 178 pounds. His breakout retrieval is excellent, with a strong pivot, speed to get to pucks first, and seperation between he and the forechecker as he gains speed on the breakout and pulls away from checking pressure. His passes are quick, have zip and are accurate. He will move pucks and follow up the play but is not a big offensive producer. Defensively however he is a force. He has excellent man focus, centered on the body rather than puck and ensuring his man goes no where. Boxing out, playing physical, and very fast into corners are all traits he possesses, and his battle record is excellent. He loses very few battles, has a strong stick and always seems to come out of a corner battle with the puck. He will also drop to block shots and do what it takes to keep pucks out of the net. His size and defensive skills should make him a fairly strong draft consideration.

Photo Credit: Dan Hickling/Hickling Images