2015 NHL Mock Draft: Winnipeg Jets First Round Pick (Part Two)

Jacob Larsson

Position: Defense

Junior Team: Frolunda

Prospect Profile

Larsson made his professional debut in Sweden last season at the age of 17. He had only 19 points in his 30 games, but no one is going to draft Larsson to be a goal scorer.

Despite the lack of points, Larsson would be categorized as a puck moving defenseman, something that is becoming a necessity in today’s NHL. See: Duncan Keith.

Though he can get the puck out of his zone, Larsson will be drafted for his play in the zone. He’s strong, physical, and he wins almost every puck battle in his corner. He has the potential to be a shut down defenseman with puck moving ability.

One thing that scares off scouts and NHL clubs about “puck moving” defensemen is the concern of if they can handle their own end. For Larsson, that’s far from an issue.

According to NHL Network’s Craig Button:

"“Larsson is very smart and poised and makes plays under pressure. A very good passer who gives you the puck in good time. Doesn’t pass along his problems and finds good options when he has the puck. His skating is solid and he maneuvers well to gain strong defensive positioning and to take advantage offensively. Ideally suited to today’s NHL”"

How He Fits

One of the top international prospects of this draft is defenseman Jacob Larsson. To be honest, he might not even fall this far, but this would be a terrific slot for the Jets to make this pick.

The Jets are so deep at forward, this is a luxury pick. Besides, they already selected Merkley with their first top round selection, and they are keep in the crease as well. It makes sense for them to take a defenseman, and I think Larsson is the top on the board at this point.

The Jets got better on defense when they traded for Tyler Myers last season. Larsson might not step in right away in the NHL, but he could see some time at some in a year or two. He’s so young, and they have a chance to really develop a defenseman of their own, which they have struggled to do.

If possible, the Jets will get Larsson with the Manitoba Moose where they can see him every day. Otherwise, he would stay in Sweden. If that’s the case, they would just hope to sign him, as some Swedish players have been known not to leave for a long while.