Sven Bartschi
Date of Birth: October 5, 1992
Place of Birth: Langenthal, Switzerland
Ht: 5-10 Wt: 185
Shoots: Left
Position: Left Wing
NHL Draft Eligibility: 2011
One Timer:
The Swiss forward’s stock has risen considerably with a strong rookie season for the Portland Winterhawks. While many places consider him a top ten selection in this draft, his size may hold him back from being taken that high.
-From “Sven Bartschi…Top Ten Worthy?”
Sven brings a good combination of speed and physical ability to the Portland Winterhawks. Most of his goal scoring chances are created by his speed, or his hard work. His size unfortunately could hinder him along the boards and working behind the net in a more physical league.
The biggest issue most scouts are having with him however, is his overall offensive ability. Does he have the ability to be a top line forward? Or will he be a boarder-line top six guy?
In his first year playing for Portland, Bartschi posted 34 goals and 51 assists, a total of 85 points… in just 66 games. He also finished with a very impressive plus/minus rating of plus 23.
The skill to be a very solid NHL player is there. Nobody doubts that. But he will need to show that he can be a game changer every single night, or teams will go for less safe picks, players that could be elite, or franchise players.
Bartschi makes for a very safe pick, because of his specific skill set. He has high top-end speed, and knows how to use his body. Unfortunately, standing at just 5’10” and 185 pounds, Sven’s size may hold him back from being that strong physical presence on the ice. He is not afraid to throw his body around, but until he starts playing with fully developed men in the American Hockey League, or the National Hockey League, it will be hard to tell if his size will be an issue.
Top Prospects Game
Sven Bartschi played for Team Orr, and compiled a goal and an assist in a 7-1 win.
Statistics
Scout’s Honor
“He’s learning how to play this North American game, he’s learning how to battle, and I really like that in his game, because he’s so skilled.”
– Winterhawks Head Coach and GM Mike Johnston
“Baertschi is a finesse player. He has very quick hands and is a deft puckhandler. His radar vision probably makes him the best in the WHL at distributing the puck.”
-Central Scouting’s Blair MacDonald
“Sven is a great hockey player, he’s got phenomenal hands… He and Nino have similarities, but they do play their own style of game. Nino is a little more physical and a little bit bigger. I think if Sven adds a few pounds, he can turn into a pretty good power forward, if not a finesse player like he is now.”
-Winterhawks Teammate Joe Morrow
Bio/Interview(s)/Link(s):
NHL.com Article
Bruins Draft Watch Interview
Sven Bartschi…Top Ten Worthy?
International Tournaments:
Bartschi has played for Switzerland in international competition many times including World Juniors championships. Although never putting up impressive stats, he has still shown the ability to make an impact.
ETA= 2/3 years
Risk-Reward Analysis:
Risk – 1.5/5 Reward – 4/5
NHL Potential:
A top line goal scoring winger, that is defensively responsible.
Strengths:
*See “One Timer” Section Above
- Excellent vision
- Lightning quick
- High top end speed
- Smart playmaker
- Nose for the net
- Deadly Release
Flaws/Aspects He Needs to Work On:
- Work Along the Boards
- Size (I know he can’t work on that!)
- Defensive positioning
- Physical at the appropriate time
Fantasy Hockey Potential: Offensive = 8.5/10 Defensive = 8/10
NHL Player(s) Comparisons:
-Derek Roy, Patrick Kane, Mike Cammalleri
Video(s)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4He6AjSnvIE
Off The Iron (Interesting Notes):
- Tries to model his game after Sidney Crosby.
- Named a top three player on his team at the 2009/2010 U18 WJC.
- Nominated for WHL Rookie of the Year.
THW’s The Next Ones prospect profile template design architect: Chris Ralph