Leafs prospect Roni Hirvonen shows off his patience, excellent vision against Czechia, sets up go-ahead goal
Leafs GM Kyle Dubas may have effectively pulled off a heist at the 2020 draft, swapping the pick that became Tyler Kleven for the picks that became Roni Hirvonen and Topi Niemela.
While Niemela has yet to really show his game-breaking offensive ability at this World Junior Championship tournament, Hirvonen has been incredible for Finland, showing poise, leadership and solid hockey IQ.
During Thursday's game against Czechia, a brilliant play by Hirvonen at the side of the Czech goal set up the go-ahead goal, which proved to be a very important goal, as Jan Mysak tied the game up for the Czechs a little over 2 minutes later. Thanks to Hirvonen's exceptional vision, the game went to extra time in a 3-3 draw, with the Fins capitalizing in the shootout to secure the 4-3 victory.
Hirvonen may not be the largest body on the ice at 5'9, 172 lbs. However, he is an effective player who plays the game the right way. He's showing in this tournament that not only can he be an effective 200-foot player, but he can also play with skilled players and make high hockey IQ plays. He's now sitting at 4 points through 2 games for the Fins.
Hirvonen for Kleven on its own could be a good move. The fact that the Leafs also got the pick used on Niemela in the deal is looking more and more like grand larceny.
