Victor Anilane is an 18 year old Swedish forward currently playing for the Sioux Falls Stampede of the United States Hockey League. A late 1990 birthday, Anilane is in North America looking to move on to the college game and eventually the NHL. A big kid (6’3, 200) Anilane has already grown into his body and is able to use his size effectively. Deceptively fast, Anilane’s long, fluid stride allows him to get up and down the ice with relative ease. Because he is a big player, he doesn’t appear to be fast. However,the lanky Swede has no problem with the pace in the up-tempo USHL, and also exhibits good quickness. Prior to coming to Sioux Falls, Anilane played 19 games with Rogle BK in the Swedish Elite League.
Blessed with good hands, Anilane is very dangerous in close. He can use his large frame to screen the goalie or can beat him with his shot, which seems to be quite lethal from the hash marks in. He also possesses good vision and is patient when making a pass. The current Forward of the Week in the United States Hockey League, Anilane figures to be a prominent fixture on Sioux Falls’ top line and their power play. For those people not able to get a look at Anilane, I recommend checking out a broadcast on the B2 Network. If not, I feel an accurate comparison is Eric Daze before he injuries took their toll. Keep an eye out for him as the draft rankings start coming in during the season.
