[The Lesser Known] The Long Rodin

[ridinryan44]

The Long Rodin

A look at a lesser known prospect who could make a fantasy impact.

For those drafted in the later rounds of the NHL entry draft, it can be difficult earning the necessary respect to crack a roster. Even a second round pick faces long term evaluation at the lower levels, especially those who decide to stay and play in Europe, where it's harder to garner the attention of the team they desire to play for. European players tend to take some time to adapt to the rigors of the NHL game. The smaller ice lends itself to the more physical style played and North American players are groomed to take advantage. With less time to play with the puck, forcing quicker decision making, some European players can be overwhelmed early on. The bigger and more physical the player, the better the odds of a more seamless transition. Standing at 5-11, 176 pounds, Rodin stands to face that exact charge, a long road in to reach his dream of playing in the NHL.

Anton Rodin is a Swedish born player who currently lights the lamp for Brynäs IF, of the Swedish Elite League. Rodin is described as a flashy, skilled player. His skating is considered his strongest suit and he has above average hockey sense. He doesn't shy away from the physical play and if he can put on more weight, his odds will rise dramatically. He hasn't made many gains in that department in the last year and it's apparent he will have to take on some serious gym time and an eating regimen in order to make the necessary changes. If Rodin can follow a similar path to that of Michael Grabner, who added the right amount of muscle to his wiry frame on advice from Vancouver's trainers, he has the potential to find the same success. Grabner's changes, both mental and physical, allow him to fight the tough battles without sacrificing his speed and agility. Rodin doesn't posses the same speed or quite the same finish that Grabner does, and has also seen some similar struggles with his finish early on in his pro career. He has, however, followed a career path in Sweden much like Grabner's in North America.

Drafted 53rd overall in the second round of the NHL draft by the Vancouver Canucks, Rodin made management look good with a solid campaign at the 2010 World Junior Championships, leading the team in game winning goals. Rodin helped lead Sweden to a respectable 3rd place finish, going 4-0 in the round robin. In a year that boasted such players as Derek Stepan, Jordan Eberle and Taylor Hall, who finished one, two and three respectively in scoring, Rodin finished tied with teammate, and current Edmonton Oiler, Magnuss Pajaarvi-Svensson for second in team scoring and ninth overall. That's pretty good company. 10 points put him above notable teammates such as Anton Lander, Mattias Tedenby, Jacob Josefson, and Marcuss Johansen. Other household names included Jordan Schroeder, Brayden Schenn and Chris Kreider. It was at this tournament that Rodin showcased his talents and solidified himself as one of Vancouver's top prospects. Rodin, known in Sweden for some highlight reel goals, has proven his offensive ability everywhere he has played.

Anton's last full season in the top junior league in Sweden saw him post 29 goals and 55 points in 37 games. As a boy playing amongst men in the SEL, Rodin is seeing limited minutes in a third or fourth line role. Averaging eight minutes a game isn't the first choice for a developing player, but the positive side is that he's good enough to play with men. After splitting the '09-'10 season between junior and the SEL, Rodin is now playing full time for Brynas and is currently eigth in team scoring with seven goals and 26 points in 53 games. These numbers are typical of a younger player transitioning into a top league, and are indicative of his offensive abilities, given his limited minutes. Swedish sports writer Daniel Sandstrom who writes for Gävle Nyhetsbyrå and follows Brynas closely has this to say about Rodin's character and development:

"Anton is not a very forward guy off ice", Sandström said. "But I have been noticing that he is taking more place in the locker room this season. Just like he is doing on the ice.

"In November, SEL took a break while the Swedish national team was playing in the Karjala Tourament with Finland, Russia and Czech Republic. Rödin didn't make it to Team Sweden, but I guess he capitalized on the game recess in every way because he has been playing great since then, working his ass off out on the ice and putting up points for himself and for his team.

"But one thing you can remark on is that Anton hasn't scored that many goals. And he has missed tons of chances", Sandström said.

The accuracy of a shot can be worked on and have dramatic affect (see Ryan Kesler), and muscle can be added (see Grabner). If there is anything I want to see from a prospect at a young age it's acknowledging weaknesses and in turn developing and growing out of those weaknesses. It appears that Rodin is working hard on all aspects of his game in order to become the best player he can, and this all amounts to a positive outlook for himself and his career as a Vancouver Canuck.

Rodin signed a three year ELC with Vancouver on June 1st, 2010 and should see a spot available for him with the Manitoba Moose in 2011-2012. Given his prior success, I wouldn't be surprised to see Rodin utilize his talents to make an impact at the AHL level next year. I expect some time will be needed to address his strength and transition into the North American game. The WJC was a great way to introduce him to the agressive style of play, and his successes there are a great sign of things to come.

Expected AHL arrival - 2011/12

Expected NHL arrival - 2013/14

[Dean Youngblood]

Good stuff Ryan

[ridinryan44]

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