The Left Wing Lock

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Ville Sarrijarvi’s life has been a whirlwind since being drafted by the Red Wings 73rd overall. The Finnish teen has already inked a three-year entry level contract with Detroit and agreed to play for the Flint Firebirds of the OHL. In between all that he’s also attended the wings development camp back and join and spent the remainder of the off season training.

“I was the happiest guy ever when Detroit picked me at the draft,” he said. “I didn’t talk to them before so when they called my name it was such an amazing feeling – I don’t know how to put it into words. It is such a good organization and they have really helped me get settled in Flint.”

Saarijarvi was then selected 9th overall in the CHL import draft last month. After spending last season with Green Bay of the USHL, the opportunity to play in the OHL will help the 5-foot-9, 161 pound defenseman continue his adjustment to the North American game.

“I have been here now in Flint for three or four weeks, Saarijarvi said. “It is a lot nicer than everyone told me but playing there is going to help me learn this type of hockey. Last year it took me 10 games or so, but this year should be easier.”

It doesn’t hurt that the 18 year-old will be within driving distance from the Red Wings. Saarijarvi will get plenty of visits from Red Wings scouts over the next few seasons to help him transition to the professional game.

“That is a big thing that I will be close to Detroit so they can watch me,” he said. “If I have a free day, I want to come watch some games and learn from the pros. I’m just really excited it worked out this way.”

For now, though the undersized blueliner is soaking up his first ever NHL prospect tournament in Traverse City, MI. Known for his puck moving ability, Saarjarvi has helped the Red Wings take a 2-0 tournament start securing the top spot in the division at the midway point.

“It’s a really good feeling to be here,” he said. “Playing against these top players is good for me. I am able to see where I am right now especially the bigger guys. I am just trying to compete hard and so far it is working.”

The first two games of the tournament have been eye opening for Saarijarvi. He knew before the tournament that he would need to add bulk and strength to his small frame, but that point was drilled home especially against the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday.

“I’ve been working on my defensive game and trying to get stronger for a while now,” he said. “I am not tall so I need to put weight on over the next few seasons. At the same time I want to be careful so it doesn’t effect my skills and skating.”

With two big games ahead of him to close out the tournament, Saarijarvi is putting all his focus on those performances. But he can hardly wait to step on the ice with NHLers for the first time next week when training camp kicks off on the 18th.

“My mind is focused on this prospect tournament,” he said. “When it is over I will focus on training camp, but I am very excited to skate with the guys and maybe pick some things up from them. I want to see what the professional level is about so I am very excited for that opportunity.”