Everyone is talking about this breakout performance from a Dallas Stars prospect at the World Junior Showcase
Photo credit: Inside the Rink
At the World Junior Showcase, Dallas Stars prospect Emil Hemming is quietly turning into one of Finland's most intriguing NHL-ready forwards with scouts buzzing about his shot and maturity.
The annual summer showcase is usually a place where NHL prospects test their game, but this year, few players have made more noise than Emil Hemming.
The 18-year-old winger from Finland has impressed with his calm under pressure, smart decisions off the puck, and a heavy, accurate shot that's caught scouts off guard.
And what's striking is that he skipped Finland's Vierumäki exhibition games just to prepare for NHL camp.
That move, which could've raised questions, instead seems to have fueled the hype around his name.
Hemming's showcase success is building belief he could crack the Dallas Stars roster this year
Lauri Mikkola, head coach of Team Finland, made it clear that Hemming's decision was strategic, not selfish.
«(Helenius and Hemming) are staying home to practice and want to be ready for NHL training camps. They have a long season ahead of them, so that's why they're staying in Finland.»
It's no surprise that now, with the spotlight firmly on him in North America, Hemming has delivered.
According to NHL.com, he's among the top breakout players of the event, standing out for both his two-way game and pro-level release.
Even Sportsnet highlighted his potential as a future top-six forward, citing his mature approach and NHL-ready strength along the boards.
Mikkola, reflecting on the group's hunger after their silver medal last winter, added:
«They're hungry. There's lots of the same guys we had last year, and I think knowing how close we came and how well we did, we really grew as a team.»
Personally, I think Hemming is closer to the NHL than people realize, and Dallas might not be able to keep him in the AHL long.
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