The 2019 Ivan Hlinka Tournament, an annual under 18 tournament, was held from August 5-10 in Piestany, Slovakia, and Breclav, Czech Republic. This showcase was held to determine spots in the upcoming IIHF 2020 World Junior Championships.
Below are the Los Angeles Kings that were represented and their scoring totals, according to NHL.com.
Representing the United States were Center Alex Turcotte (4– 5- 9 in 7 games) and Right-Wing Arthur Kaliyev (3 – 3 – 6 in 5 games). Playing for Canada were Centers Akil Thomas (1-1-2 in 4 games) and Aidan Dudas (1 goal in 3 games). Defenseman Kim Nousiainen (1 goal in 7 games) represented Finland, while Defenseman Tobias Bjornfot (1 assist in 7 games) and Forward Samuel Fagemo (1 assist in 5 games).
Turcotte (2019 1st round pick) will not be attending training camp or preseason games due to college obligations. Kaliyev (2019 22nd round pick) needs to work on consistency for the Kings training camp. Akil Thomas (2019 2nd round pick) needs to create more offense for his teammates. Dudas (2018 4th round pick-unsigned) is a Johnny Gaudreau type of player due to his size and scoring ability.
Although recording 1 point in 7 games, Nousiainen has top 4 NHL potential. Bjornfot (2019 1st round pick) is a top-pairing rearguard in the NHL. Fagemo (2019 2nd round pick) will get looks in the main camp to showcase his talents.
The Hlinka tournament is a small sample size of what we can picture in the years to come as Kings fans. Yes, some prospects did not produce like expected but these are some of the best prospects around.
The future is bright in Los Angeles and the main training camp is right around the corner. Which Kings prospect surprised you and which one wanted you wanting more?
Featured Image: NHL.com
