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A Look at Oliver Wahlstrom’s Rookie Season

On June 22, 2018, in the moments leading up to the first round of the NHL Entry Draft, American prospect Oliver Wahlstrom was interviewed by the NHL Network. When asked to give a scouting report of himself, Wahlstrom put it simply: “Big body, big shot.”

Later on, after the Islanders drafted Wahlstrom with the 11th overall pick, the NBC broadcast played some of his highlights alongside those of two of his player comparisons: Alex Ovechkin and Mike Bossy.

“The best shot in the draft, a natural goal scorer,” said Bob MacKenzie.

Wahlstrom first appeared with the Islanders during the covid-shortened 2019-20 season, playing nine games.