Oskar Sundqvist Could Be A Hidden Gem

The trade caused many to be angry initially but quickly turned more optimistic when the Blues selected Klim Kostin 31st overall. Almost forgotten in the whole deal was the addition of Oskar Sundqvist. He was a third round draft pick in 2012 by the Penguins.

After spending three full seasons in the SHL with Skelleftea AIK, Sundqvist made the jump to North America. He’s spent the majority of his time in the AHL, doubling his point total this season. Of course there’s more to the game of hockey then racking up points but the prospect has gained quite a bit of praise this past year. The Swede proved to have a bit more of an offensive flair, something he was looking to add to his more defensive game.

So what is Sundqvist’s ceiling? At only 23 the center is far from his prime. But come this September Sundqvist should be battling for a bottom six spot in the lineup and that's not something to look over. Depth players are everything in the NHL. Time and time again we see a virtual “no name” get on a hot streak that can take over a game or multiple games for that matter. Jake Guentzel anyone?

I was sad to see Ryan Reaves go as the winger always gave it his all. Crazy to think the Blues drafted him all the way back in 2005. But the deal brought two great assets to the club. This weekend was a complete success and one you really can’t find a complaint about.