FIN: Jani Net

Mikko provides scouting reports on goalies Jani Nieminen and Tuukka Rask - one a top prospect for the 2005 NHL draft and the other... not quite.

Mikael Kurki, D, Jokerit

Has split time between the Finnish junior league and the U18 league .. has visibly grown since last season, adding muscle in the offseason .. slapshot is explosive with a nice backswing and release .. terrifies goalies with lazer-eye low shots he aims into the corners of the net .. a good skater with deceptive quickness who finds open ice to join rushes .. defensive positioning is raw and speedy attackers burn him .. modest frame does not aid his cause.

Jani Nieminen, G, HIFK

Finnish junior national team regular made his debut in the U20 junior league, working out with the IFK Helsinki SM-Liiga team early this season .. a somewhat undersized netminder, but is stocky and covers angles economically .. needs to upgrade his conditioning and show more intensity out of the crease .. rough lateral movement is often exploited .. has a quick blocker and a lively glove; covers the upper part of the net surprisingly well for his height .. good poise and vision.

Tuukka Rask, G, Ilves

Exceptional reflexes; elite glove and is nimble blocker side .. moves around the crease without fear; cuts down the angles, not afraid of traffic .. rock-solid positionally and very poised for his age .. rebound control is a bit of a raw area, but second effort is strong .. plays square to the shooter and makes no false moves .. still skinny and lean .. skating and puckhandling outside of the crease could use further refining .. likely to backstop Finland in the two major WJC championships this season (U20 and U18).