Luca Santala

Scouting Notes

Strong game for Santala who finished with 2 goals on 4 SOG (6 attempts). He played C in this viewing and actually looked quite capable in the role, including 59% in the dot. Santala didn't "wow" with electric open-ice puck carrying or 1v1 dangles, but he seemed to make net positive plays on pretty much every shift here. The loose puck retrievals were very good and he showed a very good stick in terms of board battles and forcing turnovers. Displayed strong positioning on his DZ assignments, and stayed on the net-side of the puck until possession was secured, ie) he wasn't cheating for offense. Displayed a lot of effectiveness along the boards and as an OZ cycle player. The hands and creativity with the puck didn't really pop in this one, and I'm not sure that's really his game. That said, the shooting ability absolutely popped, and he was able to display his shot in a variety of ways. The game tying goal was an absolute rocket off a one-timer. On the Game Winning goal he did a nice job to freeze the goalie for just a split second before burying 5-hole on a nice quick play at the side of the net. He probably could have had 2 more as well near the end of regulation. He definitely knows how to put himself into position to get scoring chances, and that in itself is a very valuable skill. He brought a very workmanlike attitude to the ice and there were no issues with his effort level whatsoever. This isn't a flashy player, but there are a ton of pro traits here, and the shot absolutely plays. Looks like he is adjusting to his new team just fine.