Draft Prospect Profile: Alexander Holtz

If there is one thing all Ducks fans know, it’s that Bob Murray is not afraid to draft in the Swedish Hockey pipeline.

Murray could make yet another addition to “Swedenheim” this upcoming draft.

Alexander Holtz is one of the top Swedish prospects in this year’s draft. He currently plays for Djurgärdens IF of the Swedish pro league (SHL). He put up 9 goals and 16 points in 35 games this year. Also represented Sweden at the World Junior Classic, registering three goals and two assists in seven games. Looking at most draft rankings, he is averagely ranked between 5th and 9th.

Holtz could be a part of the answer to the most obvious problem for the Ducks, goal scoring.

He has an innate goal-scoring ability with an incredible shot. No matter where he is on the ice, he is always ready to shoot as his stick blade is always open ready to catch and shoot. His quick release and accuracy allow him to be a threat from anywhere in the offensive zone. If he gets any open space while on the attack, he is going to make the opponent pay.

After watching his film and highlights, it is clear that he is just a scoring threat from anywhere on the ice. He is touted as a goal scorer, but this does not mean he is not a great passer and playmaker. He possesses great vision and patience on the ice and can make some incredible passes to his teammates. He has a tenacity about him as well. He seems to always have the anticipation to be in the right place at the right time to make a play.

Listen To The DucksNPucks Podcast

Like I said in my last article, every player has their downsides. Holtz is a decent to above average skater but he lacks a quick first step acceleration. His two-way game could be improved and he doesn’t have an extremely active stick while on defense. Though he isn’t terrible on defense, he still uses his anticipation and tenacity to make good plays in the defensive zone.

ESPN Staff Writer Chris Peters said on Holtz, “There aren’t a ton of weaknesses in his game, though I’d like to see some more explosiveness in his skating to make him an even bigger threat on the rush. But his shot puts him among the elites in this class, and he sees the ice remarkably well.”

Obviously, this depends on where the Ducks end up picking in the draft, but I believe that the Ducks are going to try and target a pure goal scorer in this year’s draft. Holtz could be a good fit for the Ducks. We have all seen the playmaking and passing abilities of Trevor Zegras on full display at the World Juniors and in his college career. Getting him a possible goal-scoring linemate in Holtz could go a long way.

Visit Our Hockey Store

Bob Murray has also recently mentioned the issue of the Ducks power play and its lack of success. Holtz could slot in on the power play as he lines up on his off-wing side, and uses his shot and one-timer to create chances.

Holtz has NHL caliber skill especially with his shot, but if the Ducks drafted him I would say he would need another year in Europe to develop his overall game, especially his skating.

A comparison I would give Holtz to an NHL player is Daniel Sedin. Not only because of the Swedish connections, but their games are very similar with all their offensive capabilities.

For more discussion on the draft listen to our recent hockey podcast by clicking below or visiting us at Podomatic, Spreaker, or YouTube.

Related Articles:

Draft Prospect Profile: Jamie Drysdale

Reviewing Anaheim’s 2012 Draft Class

Reviewing Anaheim’s 2011 Draft Class

Reviewing Anaheim’s 2010 Draft Class

Reviewing Anaheim’s 2009 Draft Class

Draft Now, Season Later?

Statement From DucksNPucks

This event is bigger than the Anaheim Ducks and sport of hockey. It affects the entire sports industry and the world as a whole. Our sympathies and concerns go out to anyone affected by this worldwide incident. This will be a trying time for the world, but the triumph of the human spirit will get us through this.

Stay strong, stay safe, be kind, and love one another.

Support us by becoming a DucksNPucks patron! Members can win game tickets, a $200 Cool Hockey gift card, and more!

Want to start your sports media career? Then Join The Puck Network!

DucksNPucks is part of The Puck Network, which covers the entire NHL. There are openings to cover your favorite team(s) and earn school credits! If you are interested, then apply by filling out the form here: Join Our Team. What are you waiting for? Start your sports media career TODAY!

April 30th, 2020