Photo: MICHAEL ERICHSEN / BILDBYRÅN
By Logan Orsini
Lucas Raymond played winger for Frolunda HC of the Swedish Hockey League putting up four goals and six assists for 10 points in 33 games this year. He represented Sweden in the World Juniors last year putting up two goals and two assists in seven games. A note on these stats, Frolunda HC is one of the best professional teams in Sweden. They are regarded as the best team in the league and are stacked up and down the lineup. Raymond was 17 years of age for the most part while playing on the team. He averaged only about 10 minutes of ice time each season. He has still had a difficult season, but just worth noting.
What impressed me the most about Raymond’s game are his puck handling skills combined with great vision and passing. He tends to be a more pass first rather than shooting but still has a good shot. He is an above average skater and has a quick first step. One note I took about his skating is his ability to change speeds very quickly, which throws off defenders and creates more space on the ice. He creates opportunities for his teammates, opening up the ice with his patience and vision to make some impressive passes.
What impresses me the most about his game is his overall tenacity all over the ice. He reminds of a Mitch Marner type player. He is slightly undersized but that doesn’t mean he backs down from any situation. He is able to play in all situations from power plays to penalty kills.
Raymond will likely be available as the 6th overall pick. In my opinion, he will likely need a couple more years in the SHL or AHL before he is NHL ready. He needs to grow a bit more as his size is a big weakness of his game.
Comparing him to the other Swedish prospect, Alexander Holtz, Raymond is more of a passer rather than a shooter. The Ducks need goal-scoring, and Holtz has that ability better than Raymond, so I could see them taking him rather than Raymond.
Related Articles:
Draft Prospect Profile: Tim Stutzle
Draft Prospect Profile: Marco Rossi
Draft Prospect Profile: Alexander Holtz
Draft Prospect Profile: Jamie Drysdale
Listen to our hockey podcast by clicking below or visit us at Podomatic, Spreaker, or YouTube.
Support us by becoming a DucksNPucks patron! Members can win game tickets, a $200 Cool Hockey gift card, and more!
Want to start your sports media career? Then Join The Puck Network!
DucksNPucks is part of The Puck Network, which covers the entire NHL. There are openings to cover your favorite team(s) and earn school credits! If you are interested, then apply by filling out the form here: Join Our Team. What are you waiting for? Start your sports media career TODAY!
October 5th, 2020
DucksNPucks 