The Detroit Red Wings selected forward Filip Zadina with the sixth overall pick in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft on Friday.
Filip Zadina
Position: Right Wing
Height: 6-feet
Weight: 195 lbs
Age: 18
Club: Halifax (QMJHL)
Nationality: Czech
| GP | G | A | P | 5v5 GPG | 5v5 PPG | 5v5 GF% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 44 | 38 | 82 | 0.58 | 0.98 | 60.0 |
(Even-strength stats courtesy: prospect-stats.com)
A dynamic playmaker with exceptional offensive instincts, Filip Zadina possesses the quick release of a gifted goal-scorer as well. He also brings a steady two-way game that makes him effective at both ends of the ice.
The Czech Republic native has spent just one season in North America, but needed little time to adjust. He finished second in team scoring for the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's Halifax Mooseheads, a top program that's churned out a handful of high picks in the last five years, including Nathan MacKinnon, Jonathan Drouin, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Nico Hischier.
The hype around Zadina peaked at the World Junior Championship when he powered the underdog Czech Republic to an appearance in the bronze-medal game. Zadina wrapped the tournament with seven goals and one assist in seven contests.
"The power winger has been destroying CHL competition and saved his best performances for the Czech national team this holiday season," stated Cam Robinson of DobberProspects.com. "He uses his size and strength to create space and then delivers electric moves and finishing ability. Can beat you from anywhere on the ice. A tireless worker."
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