Despite possessing no relation to the great Peter Forsberg, Filip Forsberg remains an
attractive prospect this upcoming Draft Day. After playing against men in
the Swedish Allsvenskan, Forsberg seems ready to make the jump to the NHL, and
has been described by a few scouts as being one of the more NHL-ready prospects.
With his offensive abilities and the versatility to play any forward position, Forsberg
has a lot to offer the Montreal Canadiens, and could very well have his name
called by them on June 22nd.
Right Wing
Born: Aug 13, 1994 – Ostervala, Sweden
Height: 6’2 Weight: 181 lbs Shoots: Right
ISS Rank: 4 THN Rank: 2 McKeens Rank: 3
| Year | Team | League | GP | G | A | P | PIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009-10 | Leksand | Mid | 15 | 11 | 10 | 21 | 10 |
| 2010-11 | Leksand | Jr. | 36 | 21 | 19 | 40 | 22 |
| Leksand | Sweden | 10 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | |
| 2011-12 | Leksand | Sweden | 43 | 8 | 9 | 17 | 33 |
| Sweden | WJC | 6 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Forsberg projects as a top 6 forward, but the question remains how long it
will take for him to get there. Though possessing a large frame, Forsberg
is light for his height, and may struggle out of the gates at the NHL
level. Nevertheless, the young Swede should be able to compensate with his
capable two-way abilities. Forsberg’s skating is adequate, and his work
ethic enhances this, making him effective at both ends of the ice. His
shot is excellent, and his playmaking abilities and passing are among the best
in this year’s crop. He plays a hard-nosed game, and once he grows into
his body, he could serve as a punishing, physical presence on the ice.
The Canadiens could certainly benefit from some more size on the wings, and
Forsberg would fit this bill, even if not this upcoming year. With a good
training camp, he could step onto Montreal’s roster, especially if he is able to
play on the left side. That being said, Forsberg’s development wouldn’t be
hurt by another year in Sweden, as he remains one of the youngest draft-eligible
players, and hasn’t really seen top-6 minutes thus far. If GM Marc
Bergevin is looking for a safe selection, but one that might not necessarily
make an impact this upcoming year, Filip Forsberg may end up wearing the Habs’
colours on Draft Day.
