The Dallas Stars are not done with signings just yet. On Saturday they announced that Miro Heiskanen, the third overall pick in 2017, has signed his entry level contract. Heiskanen played in Finland’s top league last year, and is eligible for AHL play this upcoming season.
Dallas Stars Sign Third Overall Pick Miro Heiskanen
Heiskanen is not as widely known as top two picks Nico Hischier or Nolan Patrick, but shares the same level of potential. At only 17, he is being touted by many as one of the future best. A strong two-way defenseman, Heiskanen also has no troubles playing physically. Considering the Stars do not have the deepest defense, Heiskanen adds a lot of hope.
At only 17, he participated in the U20 World Junior Championship with Finland. He only registered one assist in six games. He did a lot better in the 2017 U18 World Championship, where he had an impressive 12 points in only seven games. Finland went on to win the silver medal, and Heiskanen led all skaters in assists and all defensemen in points.
Last season was also Heiskanen’s first season in the SM-Liiga, Finland’s most elite league. Heiskanen played for the HIFK, and had ten points in 37 games. He also had three points in eight playoff games.
Teammate’s Comments on Heiskanen
Fellow teammate for HIFK, Roope Hintz, also signed with the Dallas Stars this off-season and will likely make his AHL debut. When asked about him, Hintz smiled and said Heiskanen was a great player and person on and off the ice. He pointed out that Heiskanen is very talented with the puck, and had great hockey IQ. On top of that Heiskanen is also very good at keeping any offense pushed to the outside, and really challenging the other team while they’re on offense. Then, if he is able to get the puck, has the skating and puck-handling abilities to go down to the other end and set up a play quickly and with ease. In a few years, he could very well be one of the best in the league.
It is too early to tell for sure, though, but Heiskanen is at Dallas’ development camp. This could be a sign that he’s not completely ruled out of an NHL debut this year, but it is likely just the team preparing him for the AHL. Hintz and Heiskanen are both returning to Finland for the summer. Both could make a big splash in the AHL this year, though. They are familiar with each other and share excitement for making the next step. They are also two of the top prospects in the Dallas organization.
Main Photo:
