Edmonton Oilers High on Rudolfs Berzkalns' Potential
Latvian hockey prospect Rudolfs Berzkalns, selected 58th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the NHL draft, has made a strong first impression. The player models his game after Alexander Barkov and is praised for his physical attributes.
Rudolfs Berzkalns, who recently spent time in Edmonton after being drafted, says his initial experience with the Oilers organization has been fantastic. The Latvian forward admitted the moment was so emotional that tears flowed.
Oilers director of scouting Rick Preiss explained why the team chose Berzkalns so high. 'We really believe in his talent, otherwise we wouldn't have picked him that high,' Preiss said, highlighting the 193 cm tall, 92 kg player's physical advantages.
Berzkalns revealed he models his game after NHL superstar Aleksander Barkov. 'He's a two-way forward who can do everything – win faceoffs, play on the power play and penalty kill, and he plays with great responsibility. I really enjoy watching Barkov,' the Latvian said.
For the past two seasons, Berzkalns played in the USHL for the Muskegon Lumberjacks, recording 25 points (13 goals, 12 assists) in 48 games. He will return to the USHL for another season before joining Boston College's NCAA program in 2027-28.
Berzkalns noted he has focused on defensive play in recent years but aims to boost his offensive contributions next season. 'I'm just trying to become a versatile, two-way player,' he added.
