NHL.com New York Selected D Ville Pokka with 34th selection in 2012 NHL draft.
Eliteprospects.com Profile
NHL.com 6/20: Six Finnish sleepers in upcoming NHL Draft
Islanders website profile:
Trent Klatt, Islanders Player Development
Eliteprospects.com Profile
NHL.com 6/20: Six Finnish sleepers in upcoming NHL Draft
Ranked seventh among European skaters, Karpat Oulu defenseman Ville Pokka is already a regular starter in the SM-liiga and played at the 2012 World Junior Championship (one goal, four points in seven games) as well as the Under-18 Worlds (one goal, six points). A Western Conference scout compared his NHL upside to that of countryman Toni Lydman.
A smooth puck-moving defenseman with a right-handed shot, Pokka is not flashy but gets the job done. Although he is not especially aggressive in the physical department, the 6-foot, 196-pound defenseman does not shy away from contact.
Pokka started 35 games for Karpat's senior team this past season, recording three assists and 12 penalty minutes. The 18-year-old is likely to remain in Finland for two or three more seasons, and has already signed a contract extension for next season with Karpat.
Islanders website profile:
Trent Klatt, Islanders Player Development
Ville Pokka is a puck-moving defender. His passing and accuracy is good. He has a decent shot from the blue line and is a steady player.