Player's Profile
Picture Courtesy of Holly Gunning
- Name: Toni Rajala
- Position: RW
- Shoots: Left
- Height: 5-9
- Weight: 163 lbs
- Birthdate: 1991-03-29
- Eligible for Draft: 2009
- Drafted: 2009
- Hometown: Parkano, Finland
- Acquired: 4th round, 2009 by EDM
- Playing In: CHL
Toni Rajala
Prospect Grade: 7.5 D (About Prospect Grades)
Profile Contributed By: HF Staff
History
2007-08: Rajala spent most of the season with the U20 Ilves squad of the SM-Liiga. He posted 35 points (13g+22a) in 33 games before heading to the U18 WJC where he recorded five points (3g+2a).
2008-09: Played with Ilves on both their U20 and senior teams. With the junior squad, he posted 31 points in as many games. Played for the Finnish U20 team and was an all-tournament selection in the U18 World Championships in Fargo, winning a bronze medal and a slew of honors (Best Forward, All-Star Team, Most Points, Most Goals and Best Plus/Minus (+10) at the tourney).
HF's pre-draft feature on Rajala.
Talent Analysis
Rajala has incredible offensive talent. His best asset might be his elusiveness. He is however, very slight of build. Rajala is a pure skill player who – mentally and physically – always seems to be a step ahead of the opposition. His size and strength are concerns – and the key issue will be whether he can compete on a nightly basis against some of the bigger and faster players in the NHL. He is almost unstoppable at the junior level – both in domestic play and in international competition – and has a strong inner drive to create offense. He is a marvel handling the puck, shoots accurately with a quick release, and is adept at passing and receiving the puck. Provides constant pressure on the power play due to his skill level, intensity and ability to recognize open teammates and scoring opportunities.
Future
Rajala could end up as a high-end sniper, or a career AHLer.
Stats
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Profile Last Updated: November, 10th 2009
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