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Mark Divver came out today with a tweet that definitely could bring some fun to the mix:
Look for #NHLBruins to sign 2017 1st rounder Urho Vaakenainen to ELC before development camp at end of June. Still to be decided whether he plays in North America -- likely P-Bruins -- or returns to Europe next season
— Mark Divver (@MarkDivver) May 31, 2018
Vaakanainen’s year as a member of the Finnish team SaiPa was both successful and productive, as he had 11 points in 43 games, which is good for 2nd on the team in defenseman scoring! He was also a mainstay on the Finnish national teams, both for the World Juniors and for other international play, where he accrued 7 points in 32 games.
As for whether or not he plays in North America?...That could be tricky.
See, Boston has a lot of Left-shooting defenders on both their main roster and Providence Roster, meaning he’d likely be involved with Zboril, Lauzon, Emil Johansson, and Wiley Sherman. Sherman and Johansson are probably not going to end up being NHLers, but Zboril and Lauzon appear to be ready to make big strides. Having him along would be nice, but the depth such as it is...it’s unlikely he makes it to Boston full time just yet.
Still, having him under contract would be a great time for the Bruins, as their incredible Left-hander depth continues to only get deeper, and deeper. I hope he finds his way to the team by, if not before, Dev camp as well!