Ike Arkander Rookie Profile
Name: Ike Arkander
Age: 18
Hometown: Ostervala, Sweden
H/W: 6’3”, 202 lbs.
Brief Background
The 5th Generation of player representation STZ Agency was announced last off-season as goaltender Ike Arkander of Ostervala, Sweden. This is the first non-North American player from this agency, and the second goalie in a row to be represented. Arkander is virtually an unknown before this signing, as he was an amatuer player, with very little potential upside - considered not a future full-time hockey player. However, he had a solid season last year, and seemingly has the green light from the STZ Agency which has turned heads. He becomes the New York Americans first prospect in their rebuild, and is already being projected as an elite starting goalie in the VHL. There are a lot of question marks when it comes to this kid, and this is the first every scouting report released on the Swede Goalie.
Strengths
Agency Pedigree - There’s a precedent set for players coming out of the STZ Player Agency. All four of the previous players represented have been bonafide VHL All-Stars. While there’s very little known about Arkander, the tout that this agency has has given more scouts an indication that this player could be the real deal. In fact, some scouts are grading Arkander at an A, before the season, when most scouts hadn’t even watched a single game from Ike.
Reaction Time - Arkander has VHL-ready Reaction Time. He is very quick on his feet, and stood out in the VHLM Draft Combine. He’s very skilled in tracking the puck, and anticipating the next move of his opponent.
Hand Speed - While Arkander is overall very strong in the quickness and Reaction Time category, it is his Hand Speed which really emphasizes on this attribute. He is able to make that flashy save to turn momentum into his team’s favour. The early scouting report is to put pucks low and go for the rebound - not because he gives up juicy rebounds, but because he is too good with his glove.
Weaknesses
Size - Arkander needs to fill out to be an elite VHL Starting Goalie who can win championships. This is somewhat out of his control, and he must just do what he can to build muscle and put himself in the best possible situation when the time comes to graduate. New York has hired some strength and conditioning coaches, as well as a personal nutritionist to help Ike efficiently bulk up. NYA has shown serious commitment to this player as an investment.
Penalty Shot - This is a skill that he just hasn’t practiced, as he has never been exposed to a penalty shot, in game. It will be a true test to see if he can adapt to the VHL game.
Very Little Scouting Reports - The unknown scares some scouts. However, GM of the Americans trusts this player as he made him the Franchise Player under the GM rule. Arkander is a very raw talent, but on the flip side there are not many who know how to beat him as there isn’t much information about him. There is a fear that this is a gamble for NYA, and the transition from amatuer to VHL is just too much for him to handle.
.png.ed69a7260a477fcf4feead7a0e4b7506.png)
