Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson Finding Role at Boston University

With Jack Eichel in the NHL with the Buffalo Sabres, Boston University is no longer the home of any super-prospects. However, the Terriers do boast Boston Bruins property Jakob Forsbacka-Karlsson, who should have a fast track to the NHL if he keeps playing as he has.

The freshman has been a bright spot  for the Terriers, scoring 11 points in his first ten NCAA games. Fondly known as JFK, the Swedish prospect has eight assists out of his point total and has seen time centering the first and second lines throughout the season. He has played with top San Jose Sharks prospect Danny O'Regan, who played all of last season on a line with Eichel and now Buffalo Sabres prospect Evan Rodrigues.

The former Omaha Lancers (USHL) star totaled 88 points in 110 games played and it seems like his scoring pace has only improved.

Forsbacka-Karlsson is ranked as the Bruins fourth best center prospect by Hockey's Future. They also say that he should get an invite to NHL camp at some point, and it should be expected that the Bruins would start giving him looks as early as next season and he will also get a look at being a part of Team Sweden in the future. However, at 18 years old and still rather raw, it might be in his best interest to remain in the NCAA for his four seasons. SportsNet said his best NHL player comp would be Jarrett Stoll.

Not only is JFK a natural scorer and playmaker but he is also solid on special teams and especially in the faceoff circle. One of the reasons he was promoted to the top line playing between leading scorers O'Regan and Ahti Oksanen has to do with his playmaking but also his ability to retain possession for that first line.

Forsbacka-Karlsson has not come close to filling the offensive void left by Eichel's departure, but he has contributed to the offense has a whole. He is tied for ninth in scoring in freshmen in the country.

On Friday and Saturday night, Forsbacka-Karlsson matched up against top Michigan defenseman Zach Werenski, a top prospect for the Columbus Blue Jackets. He picked up an assist in the second game and had no trouble making plays with his top line.

Boston University is still adjusting in life after Eichel, but Forsbacka-Karlsson has been one of its biggest positives. For the next few years, he will be one of the top prospects in the NCAA to keep an eye on.