Calgary Flames fast-track Emilio Pettersen
It has been a bizarre journey to the NHL for Norwegian prospect Emilio Pettersen, but he has arrived to the world’s most prestigious hockey league all the same. Pettersen had become a YouTube sensation at the age of just 10, when several videos of his skills went viral. He was quickly dubbed the “Norwegian Gretzky”.
The pressure never seemed to get to the youngster though as he moved to the United States at 13 in the hopes of one day having the opportunity to play in the NHL. That day come on Monday when the Calgary Flames announced that they have decided to fast-track the University of Denver forward and sign him to a three-year entry level deal. This will allow Pettersen to play in the American Hockey League next year and be paid as opposed to going back for another season of NCAA hockey.
“He was a YouTube sensation when he was a little kid – they called him the Norwegian Gretzky,” Said Flames’ general manager Brad Treliving via Sportsnet.
“Our plan probably all along was he’d go back another year and when I talked to him at the end of the year this is what he wanted to do. He’s got his head screwed on straight and I have no qualms that he’s going to be putting in the work he needs to put in.”
Calgary selected Pettersen in the sixth round of the 2018 NHL Draft and they seem to have a real gem on their hands. Despite his age, he has quickly become one of the most highly regarded prospects to ever come out of Norway. He was scheduled to play for his country at the IIHF Men’s World Championships before it was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I’m so excited for this new opportunity,” said Pettersen via Sportsnet. “When I came here (to Denver) I wanted to stay four years, but that didn’t happen.”
It looks to be the right move for the player looking to take the next step in his career after an impressive season in Denver. He led his team with 13 goals and 35 points in 36 games. However, there is still some work that needs to be done when it comes to his defensive responsibilities.
“His biggest thing he’ll have to work on is his defence – that will be a growth area for him,” said Trevling.
“He’s got great vision, he can drive a line, but an area he needs to improve upon is his play away from the puck.”
It remains to be seen when hockey will resume, and players can get back to the arenas. Unlike in other sports where players can still practice at home, most hockey players haven’t had the opportunity to skate since mid-March when leagues were halted.
The Flames were sitting third in the Pacific Division after 70 games prior to the NHL being suspended and still had hopes of catching the Vegas Golden Knights for top spot. The league has not made an official announcement in regard to the remainder of the season yet as they are still optimistic they can conclude the current campaign.
