The word on 6’0, 190 lbs., defenseman Simon Bertilsson is that if the 2009 NHL draft was not so filled with elite Swedish players, he would have been taken higher. Somewhat overshadowed by the many Swedes in the draft, Bertilsson is a physical, stay-at-home blue liner that is mature in his own zone and thinks the game well.
“We really like Simon,” said Holmgren. “He’s a hard-nosed kid and is good with the puck. We like him a lot.”
Bertilsson has a lot of upside, but he needs to get stronger to be a capable pro defenseman. With his mobility and smarts, he is a solid pick at 87.
Phila.Bright 