September 8, 2010
Meet the Chicago Blackhawks’ Speedy New Forward Viktor Stalberg
Viktor Stalberg, F
6’3 210 DOB: 01/17/1986
Stalberg was acquired by the Chicago Blackhawks this summer in the trade that sent Kris Versteeg to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and is being viewed as (hopefully) his immediate replacement.
Drafted in the 6th round (161st overall) by Toronto in 2006, Stalberg was one of the Leafs top prospects entering last year. In 2008-09 the Swedish-born forward posted 46 points (24 G, 22 A) in 39 games at the University of Vermont (where he was on the Hockey East All-Academic Team in 2007-08) before signing with the Leafs. He appeared in two playoffs games for the Leafs’ AHL affiliate, the Toronto Marlies, and tallied one assist.
Last year Stalberg began the year with the Marlies and posted 33 points (12 G, 21 A) in 39 games in the AHL, but eventually saw time with the Leafs. In 40 NHL games last year, Stalberg scored nine goals and added five assists in 14:13 in average ice time. He was minus-13 for the NHL season, and added 30 penalty minutes in that brief action. Stalberg also contributed 64 hits and 18 blocked shots to the Leafs in those 40 games.
More than anything else, Stalberg is known for his speed. His acceleration is elite, and he’s described has having a good shot and as a “natural sniper.” He’s effective on the forecheck and plays hard. He is less than four months older than Versteeg, five inches taller and 30 pounds heavier (according to the official roster). If the Hawks place him on a line with either Patrick Kane or Marian Hossa as the opposite wing, Stalberg could be set for a big season.
Read more NHL news on BleacherReport.com
Related posts:
- Leafs Sign College Forward Brayden Irwin: Did Burke Find Another Gem?
- Chicago Blackhawks: Where Will the Scoring Come From Next Year?
- Chicago Blackhawks Prospects Will Compete In Rookie Tournament
- Chicago Blackhawks Should Lock Up Viktor Stalberg Now
- Chicago Blackhawks Welcome Back Hossa, Stalberg…and Turco
