Puljujarvi and Laine compared ahead of NHL draft
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 4:03 AM
Last updated Jul 7, 2026
The Hockey News highlights the matchup between Patrik Laine and Jesse Puljujarvi ahead of the 2016 NHL Draft. Both players are Finland's prospects for the top three picks. Puljujarvi recently won MVP at the World Junior Championship, while Laine showcases a powerful shot drawing comparisons to Alex Ovechkin. Scouts note the close skill level, with Puljujarvi excelling defensively and Laine being a more dynamic scorer. The decision on which player to select may come down to team needs and their developmental strategies as they both prepare for the NHL.
- •Puljujarvi won MVP at the World Junior Championship.
- •Laine compared to Alex Ovechkin for his shot power.
- •Scouts note their close skill sets with differing strengths.
- •Both players expected to enter NHL lineups in fall 2016.
- •Finland could have two top-three draft picks this year.
- 4:03 AMYahoo Sports — THN Archive: Puljujarvi vs. Laine
"After Auston Matthews, it’s a total toss-up between the high-flying Finns. Does the edge go to Laine’s upside or Puljujarvi’s complete game?
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