4. Emil Bemstrom, C [19 years old]
Stats (Leksands IF, Allsvenskan): 18 gp, 12 g, 13 a, 25 p.
Stats (Leksands IF J20, SuperElit): 33 gp, 8 g, 7 a, 15 p (11 pgp, 2 g, 0 a, 2 p).
Bemstrom was one of the best players in the SuperElit last season, second in points per game (more than 10 games) and tied for 86th in scoring in just 18 games. He didn’t do as well in the Allsvenskan, the first time he played an extended time in one of the top leagues in Sweden. This season, Emil Bemstrom could be in the SHL and become one step closer to making his North American transition.
At 19, a season in the top Swedish league wouldn’t hurt his chances of becoming a member of the Columbus Blue Jackets. In fact, it would make Bemstrom even more attractive to the Blue Jackets, especially if he does well.
If he does do well and then makes the North American transition, that could mean big things for Bemstrom. He’s likely not in the Blue Jackets’ plans down the middle (not with Pierre-Luc Dubois, Alexander Wennberg, and Foudy) but if he can transition to the wing as well, he can play a necessary role.
Bemstrom is an excellent producer, and his ceiling is likely a middle-six forward. If he can take steps forward in the next two seasons (one in the SHL, one potentially in the AHL), then his NHL readiness will be closer than others. Finally, his chances of playing with the Blue Jackets is a limiting factor, which is why he doesn’t make the top three.