Thinking back to when I was younger and just discovering my love for hockey has got me nostalgic.  That kid certainly dreamed of a long and successful career in the SHL but never really believed it would come true.  Having watched his father play professional hockey, he knew that the skills were in his DNA to be a star.  Fortunately he got incredible exposure to some very talented players which helped him grow his own skills and set him up to be a highly regarded prospect throughout his young playing life.  Interestingly though, he did not initially want to be a defenseman, he always dreamed of scoring goals and being the top center on a team.  He noticed that as he grew taller and more physical, he could bring value on the blueline while still being a scoring threat.  He liked smashing people whenever possible and ripping clappers from the point as well.  That is what set him up to be the player he is today.

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