2011 Entry Draft pick Gabriel Landeskog approved for NHL by Colorado Avalanche –NHL News Update
Colorado Avalanche was faced with its most disappointing performance last season as it ranked in the gallows of the Eastern Conference, but over the offseason, they have gained hope after making some much needed changes which included drafting the Swedish
sensation, Gabriel Landeskog, who they now think is ready to play in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Termed the most NHL ready player by scouts from North America before the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, Colorado made a smart choice and continued its tradition of drafting some of the best foreign talent in the world by pick Landeskog with their second overall pick.
Now after a series of tests and courses including various matchups in the preseason, Colorado Avalanche believe that their 18-year-old left winger is ready to make them proud in the major league and most probably will not be going back to the minors.
Colorado general manager, Greg Sherman, certainly believes that Landeskog, if not now, will eventually become the next team leader for his franchise.
"I think in talking with our scouts in anticipation of what to expect from him, he's lived up to that", Sherman told NHL.com. "He does the little things on the ice. He's a smart hockey player, he's got good size, and he's the type of player that down the
line will make his teammates better, his linemates better. He has a tremendous amount of character, make-up. For an 18-year-old he's very focused. I think when you look at not only the physical attributes, but the capabilities he has mentally, it's very impressive
for an 18-year-old".
He might have only potted one assists in four preseason matchups, but the learning process for the rookie is just beginning and it could be spontaneous later on the season.
Landeskog’s history certainly does not let him down after registering 46 points (24 goals, 22 assists) in his first 61 game season with Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) followed by a 66 point (36 goals, 30 assists) improvement the next
season in 53 games played.
It will be exciting to see how the young Swedish player performs when Colorado Avalanche inaugurate their season against Detroit Red Wings on Saturday, October 8, at home.
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