Adam Boqvist, Brynäs IF (SHL)
The Numbers
Position: Defenseman
Age on Draft Day: 17
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 170 lbs.
2017-2018 Stats: 25 GP, 14 G, 10 A (SuperElit)
Projection: Top-four QB defenseman
Adam Boqvist is, in most opinions, the second-best EURO skater in the draft. He’s a constant threat when he has the puck. I wouldn’t say he’s as good a skater as Quinn Hughes, but he’s still smooth as silk. I like to look at Boqvist sort of like a wild stallion — he’s got all the tools to be on the same level as a defenseman like Tyson Barrie. He’s got an instinct with the puck offensively, and his skating is only going to improve with access to NHL-style development.
Now, in my opinion, if Boqvist can develop his game, it’s not crazy to think that he’s got the tools to be a player along the lines of Oliver Ekman-Larsson
He idolizes Erik Karlsson, and it shows in his game. He plays a similar style, but what remains to be seen is if he can do it at the next level. Boqvist has said that he does enjoy playing on North American ice.
Boqvist’s hype is very much overshadowed by Dahlin’s, and for good reason. I believe Boqvist has raw skill, talent, and instincts that when harnessed and developed could create one hell of a rearguard that could thrive in the NHL.
The knock on Boqvist is that he can be a little soft on the puck at times — as well as too passive in his own zone. You see this a lot with players like his style in the Euro leagues in my opinion. The open ice gives him a real advantage to force it when he sees the space.
“Defensively, he can be an adventure. His decisions run to high risk, instead of safeguarding, in his own zone, which can be problematic. At other times, he’s too passive, even in clearing out the front of his own net.” -Future Considerations
Adam Boqvist isn’t a player I see immediately ready for the NHL. If whoever drafts him is smart, they’ll give him the similar path that was given to Erik Karlsson. Another year in Sweden, playing a full season in the SHL — then move him to North America, with some time in the AHL.
Bottom Line
The Red Wings can’t go wrong at 6th overall with what will be there. If Hughes isn’t there, Boqvist should be. If both aren’t there, both Evan Bouchard and Oliver Wahlstrom will be. But if I’m putting my money on any defensemen, it’s Quinn Hughes and Adam Boqvist. They aren’t Rasmus Dahlin (no one is), but it’s an excellent consolation prize if you’re looking to put a blue chip into the defensive prospect pool.
Would you draft Adam Boqvist at 6th overall?
| Yes | 318 |
| No | 204 |
| Undecided | 90 |
