Euro Curve

Euro Curve takes a look at the latest international hockey headlines.

– The New Jersey Devils recalled Finnish Defenseman Olli Malmivaara on Wednesday from their American Hockey League Affiliate, the Lowell Devils, but he didn’t play in the game versus the Tampa Bay Lightning. Malmivaara played 60 games for the Lowell Devils last year after spending the last six seasons in the Finnish Sm-liiga. In 60 games last season with Lowell, he had one goal and 11 assists in 60 games. The Devils were forced to recall Malmivaara after a serious injury to veteran Colin White has seriously depleted their d corps. In 2005’06 Malmivaara had 11 goals and 9 assists in 54 games for SaiPa Lappeenranta in 54 games. Malmivaara was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2000 (4/117). According to The Sports Network, the Scouting report on Malmivarra is:

Assets
Has a huge frame and wingspan. Takes up a lot of space in the defensive zone.
Flaws
Needs more work on his skating and coordination. Must develop a mean streak.
Career potential
No. 6 or 7 defenseman.

For Illegal Curve, I’m Ezra Ginsburg.