The Dallas Stars announced the call-up Monday of defenseman Esa Lindell, who is ripping up the AHL.
Drafted 74th overall in the third round in 2012, Lindell has seven goals and 18 assists in 42 games in his rookie AHL season. His 25 points rank fourth among defenseman in the league.
Dallas call up Lindell has been one of the best players in the AHL this season and was named top defenseman at the Worlds last spring.
— Corey Pronman (@coreypronman) January 18, 2016
A native of Finland, Lindell spent three seasons in the Swedish Elite League before heading to North America. He's a big boy, standing in at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds.
The Stars uncovered a gem in John Klingberg in the 2010 draft, selecting the Swede in the fifth round, 131st overall. They're hoping another Nordic defenseman in Lindell can further solidify their defense corps.
Dallas has lost three in a row and six of seven in the new year. It placed defenseman Jordie Benn on injured reserve in a corresponding move.
- With h/t to Pro Hockey Talk
