An American-born Finn was the first choice by the Montreal Canadiens on the second day of the 2018 NHL Draft. Jesse Ylönen, son to former NHLer Juha Ylönen, was more or less born into a career in ice hockey.
Having played the entirety of his draft season in Mestis, Finland’s second division, Ylönen gave defenders fits with some of his moves. However, he is still an uncut gem in need of some polishing.
He will need to add strength to his 6’1” frame to really challenge for an NHL position. If he does, he certainly has top-six potential, with his speed and hands standing out as the biggest tools to get him there.