The New York Islanders announced late on Thursday night that they've loaned 2021 second-round pick
Aatu Raty to Karpat in Finland's top division, Liiga.
Raty, 18, signed his three-year entry-level contract with the Islanders back in August and attended his first training camp this week, leaving many in the organization impressed with what he has to offer.
"I've been extremely impressed with the player to this point," Islanders Head Coach Barry Trotz said. "[He's] quite mature. Has lots of game, high hockey IQ, he reminds me of a
Zach Parise-type of player. He's got a really good motor, always around the net, very intelligent, wins his puck battles, has really good hands. What a great pick by our scouts."
Trotz went on to add, "Personally, there's certain kids that you get really excited with when they show up at camp. A lot of times we get a kid at camp, we get excited, but we go, 'He has this hole and this hole. We're going to have to work on this.' But there's not that many holes in his game really."
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Before the 2020-21 season, Raty was projected to be the first overall selection in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, but after a slow start to his season in Liiga with Karpat, and wasn't even picked for Finland at the World Juniors. Going back to Finland will only help his development, and there is a very good chance he will play an important role for Finland at the 2022 World Juniors as they look to improve on their bronze medal from the last tournament.
Source: New York IslandersADS
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