Jacob Larsson
Position: D
Current Team: Frölunda
Date of Birth: April 29, 1997
Place of Birth: Ljungby, Sweden
Height: 6’2″
Weight: 181 lbs
Shoots: Left
As we switch back to the blue line for the #18 slot, please meet Jacob Larsson, a solid skating, two-way defenseman. He was named the Top Defenseman in Sweden’s U-18 league in 2013-14. He spent most of the 2014-15 campaign with the Frölunda J20 club, before being called up to the parent club in Frölunda for the final 20 games of the season. To most observers, he fit in quite well at the top level, despite his youth.
As with most youngsters at this age, he needs to add some bulk to his 6’2″ frame. That may be all that is lacking, as he has the positioning, skating and stick handling skills necessary to succeed at the top level. He is currently ranked #3 among European skaters in the NHL Central Scouting Rankings, which is no mean feat for a defenseman. Intriguingly, he does not make the top 30 in the ISS Rankings. He will need some time to accommodate himself to the North American game, so is not likely to be an immediate impact kind of guy. Long term, probably quite an impact.
A Good Fit in Columbus?
Larsson would be a nice addition to restore some defensive depth, but that seems like an unlikely occurrence. There are other better choices at #8, and unless another trade lands a second 1st round pick, Larsson will likely be plying his trade elsewhere next season.
Larsson Up Close
Tough to find action sequences on Larsson, but this site has some good stuff. Swedish recommended. Here he is in an interview while with the junior club. Swedish required.