Best defensive forward
Colin White played some tournaments this season for the USNTDP where he didn't put up a lot of points, but he never shirked his defensive duties. "He already knows how to back up his wingers and defence in all three zones," said one scout. "He uses his speed and smarts to his advantage."
Forsbacka-Karlsson is an intelligent pivot with a strong work ethic and hustle, while Vorobyev was a defensive force in every U-18 tournament and already plays a pro-style game. Merkley is usually the first forward back and very proficient at gaining puck possession in his own zone. Ek is a typical Swedish-trained center...cognizant of his defensive responsibilities.
1. Colin White
2. Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson
3. Mikhail Vorobyev
4. Nick Merkley
5. Joel Eriksson Ek
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