Bebeh Draft Pick Profiles – Toni Rajala

We’ve looked at Sweden already for a bebeh player for the Canucks and now we’re taking a peek at Finland and the RW Toni Rajala. His name is super fun to say, don’t you think? Rajala’s NHL.com profile gives us the goods. In 31 games with his junior team in Finland last season he was a point a game player with 14 goals and 17 assists. He also played 21 games with the mens team and had 5 points (2 goals 3 assists). Toni has international experience with team Finland. At last year’s world juniors he had 3 points in 4 games. When he was at the U18 championships in 2008 he had everyone cooing when he scored 19 points in 6 games. At 5’10” and 163 he is quite a wee one which may be a concern. Although it’s easier for lil guys to make it these days. TSN has his scouting report from International Scouting Services.

“Rajala has been the focus of a lot of hype from a very young age. He has dominated every level he has played at in Finland and shown very well during international competitions. He had the most eyes looking his way at World U18 Championship he didn’t shy away but rather further pushed the spot light his way. Rajala needed to have a big tournament and do that he did, finishing with 19 pts in 6 games, eclipsing the previous U18 scoring record set by some kid named Ovechkin. He is said to be too small, but he is feisty and didn’t back down when challenged. He had a tremendous second half of the bronze game against Canada and was easily the best player on the ice for either team.”

I like it. He sounds saucy and fun to watch. Rajala’s favourite team is the Red Wings and his favourite player is Henrik Zetterberg. His number one movie is Slap Shot 2 and his favourite band is Nickleback. What is it about hockey players and Nickleback? Oh well. Toni sounds delightful and I won’t hold that against him. You know, we really don’t have enough Finns on the Canucks. I should learn how to say Hi in Finnish in case I run into him at the draft.