The Toronto Maple Leafs drafted Topi Niemela in the third round of the 2020 NHL draft with the 64th overall pick. Niemela did not register many points in his draft year but was still selected in the third round, thanks to his defensive play.
Since his draft, Niemela has performed so well that he looks like a steal for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the third round.
One thing that every scout pointed out was how reliable Niemela was in the defensive end. Being able to rely on a defenseman when they don’t have the puck is what every coach wants.