SAMI
NIKU
#15 -
D
Status
Unrestricted free agent
Ht/Wt
6’1’’,
176 lbs
Shoots
L
Experience
5
years
Debut
Apr 3, 2018
Born
Oct 10, 1996
(27 yrs)
Haapavesi, Finland
Hometown
Jyvaskyla, Finland
Drafted
Drafted by Winnipeg in 2015 (7/198).
Drafted from
Jyp (Fin2)
Transactions & Injuries
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| 2022-07-24 |
Signed with the JYP Jyvaskyla of the Liiga (Finland).
|
| 2022-01-30 |
Assigned to the Laval Rocket (AHL).
|
| 2022-01-27 |
Placed on the taxi squad by the Montreal Canadiens.
|
| 2022-01-26 |
Placed on waivers by the Montreal Canadiens.
|
| 2021-12-28 |
Missed 7 games (covid-19).
|
Career Honors & Awards
| League | Honor | Description |
|---|---|---|
| AHL | Eddie Shore Trophy Oustanding Defenseman | 2017-18 |
| AHL | First All-Star Team First All-Star Team | 2017-18 |
| AHL | All-Rookie Team All-Rookie Team | 2017-18 |
Scouting Report
The 2017-18 AHL defenseman of the year is still trying to translate that success into a regular role in the NHL. Has had problems managing his emotions and attitude, which have led to him growing discouraged and frustrated too easily. He has all the tools to be an NHL regular on the blue line: speed, puckhandling skills and a good shot, though he needs to work on his positioning and play in his own zone. Is a great passer, which makes him an ideal fit on the power play.
Long Range Potential: Talented, inconsistent offensive defenseman.
