NHL Draft 2017: Detroit Red Wings select Michael Rasmussen with No. 9 overall pick

With the 9th overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, the Red Wings draft centerman Michael Rasmussen from Tri-City in the WHL.

The Wings went off the book here. Rasmussen was a guy who had his draft stock inflated due to his size. He’s a strong player, with a lot of character, but skipping on players like Gabriel Vilardi is questionable.

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Posting 32 goals, and 33 assists in his second season in the wHL, Rasmussen is described as a less-explosive player with a monstrous frame. He can put a decent amount of velocity. He’s lauded as a strong 200-foot player that has the size to be an ideal net-front presence on the power-play. One thing is for sure, they have a player with the frame to step into the NHL next season. He’ll likely spend one more season with Tri-City.

Here’s a quick breakdown of Rasmussen from a scout at Future Considerations:

Rarely do you nd a player with his size, skill and smarts. Rasmussen is a highly effective 200-foot player. Big toolsy forward that shows a great work ethic and understanding of two sides of the ice. Skates well for his size and has a power skillset. Takes play into his own hands in the tough areas with combination of muscle and puck skill. Fights through sticks and bodies to take puck to the net.”