Finnish defenceman Markus Niemelainen is a noteworthy prospect for the Edmonton Oilers, and was a popular top-round pick heading into this summer’s draft. Thankfully, the Oilers were fortunate to get him in third round (63rd overall).
Niemelainen made a name for himself as one of the top European defenceman in his age group after tallying 16 points (two goals, 14 assists) in 39 games with HPK U20 in Finland’s Jr. A SM-liiga in 2014-15. He was later selected by the Saginaw Spirit, 18th overall in the 2015 CHL Import Draft.
The 6-foot-5, 205-pound blueliner is a talented, towering player who plays a reliable two-way game and owns a powerful shot.