Player's Profile
Picture Courtesy of www.eliteprospects.com
- Name: Marcus Kruger
- Position: C
- Shoots: Left
- Height: 5-11
- Weight: 172 lbs
- Birthdate: 1990-05-27
- Eligible for Draft: 2009
- Drafted: 2009
- Hometown: Stockholm, Sweden
- Acquired: 5th round (149th overall), 2009
- Playing In: Europe
Marcus Kruger
Prospect Grade: 7.0 B (About Prospect Grades)
Profile Contributed By: HF Staff
History
2008-09: Kruger captained his Djurgarden-Jr squad. Earned an invite to the World Juniors camp and could very well be included on Sweden's U-20 team next spring.
2009-10: Kruger exploded onto the scene in Sweden thanks to a strong start to his SEL campaign with Djurgarden. The pivot finished the season with 11 goals and 20 assists in 38 games. His 31 points tied for second on the team despite playing in far fewer games than the squad's other top forwards. Kruger added 3 goals, 7 assists for 10 points in 16 playoff games as Djurgarden came up just short in their SEL championship series against HV71. He suited up for Sweden's U20 team at the WJC and notched 6 assists in 6 games as the squad's top line center. Kruger helped Sweden to a bronze medal and he was a nominee for the SEL's Rookie of the Year award.
2010-11: Serving as an alternate captain for Djurgarden, Kruger played 52 SEL games and scored 6 goals, 29 assists for 35 points. A foot injury led to a slow start to his season, but he returned to form and helped Djurgarden earn a playoff spot despite not having the same offensive power as the previous season. Djurgarden was knocked out of the playoffs in 3 games and Kruger immediately joined the Blackhawks. He was held scoreless in 7 regular season games with Chicago, but notched his first career NHL point with an assist in one of his 5 playoff games. Kruger also laced up for Sweden at the World Championships, scoring 2 goals, 1 assist in 9 games.
Talent Analysis
Krüger is an exceptionally skilled playmaker with elite hockey sense. He likes to set up plays and find his teammates with tape-to-tape passes. Has become much stronger which has improved his game, although he still could use additional strength and muscles. Works well in all three zones and has leadership qualities.
Future
Kruger finished the 2010-11 season in Chicago after Djurgarden's season ended and will be penciled into the opening night lineup with the Blackhawks for the 2011-12 season.
Stats
.
Profile Last Updated: August, 23rd 2011
HF Quick Navigation
