| 15 January 2010
Sami Lepisto will be guarding the blue line for Team Finland this February. But just who is Sami Lepisto and what dance moves has he been up to lately?
Photo: my own
My first memory of Sami Lepisto is from camp. I look over to the corner and there is Sami doing his best Shakira impression. I have been hooked on this Fin ever since.
Coming into camp, most Phoenix fans didn't know much about Sami. We knew he was a Caps prospect that we acquired at the draft. We knew there must have been something special because DM wouldn't steer us wrong. Most of us thought Sami would most likely be the 7th dman or sent down to San Antonio.
Luckily for Sami the Phoenix defense core was injury ridden at the start of the season. With Kurt Sauer, Jovo and Z out, Sami had a chance to shine. And shine he did! He was getting a ton of ice time and really stepped up to the challenge.
Sami showed that he can skate well and really move the puck. He enjoyed playing with Yandle, since they are both similar players. Currently he is partnering more with Z and I really like this pairing. Z is a solid blueliner which gives Sami the opportunity to get involved in the play. He also shows a lot of confidence, always going in the corners and trying to clear the other teams players from in front of his goalie. His biggest downsize may be his size. He's 6', 190 pounds, kind of light. Don't worry, I can help Sami put on some muscle!
Sami has been known to put up some great offensive numbers in the past. Phoenix has yet to see this side of him. He currently has 6 assits in 39 games and is a -4. Sami, I know you can score! Get on that honey! And I wouldn't be too worried about his +/-. He was a +53 in the AHL. Nice.
Sami has the potential to be a great puck moving defenseman and be fairly responsible in his own end. Dave Tippett is really giving him the chance to prove it. Being named to Team Finland must also be a great confidence booster for the young dman.
And the best part of Sami's game? The dancing! That boy knows how to move it. I think the Coyotes and Team Finland need to invest in Sami-Cam. The guy is hilarious to watch during practice, warm ups and games. They could sell a subscription to the feed. It would be a great way to make money for the team or team charities.
Some Random Facts:
Father: Jussi Lepisto (former dman and Captain of Jokerit team)
Godfather: Jari Kurri (no explanation needed I'm sure)
Dman he looked up: Tepo Numminen (former yote) and Kimmo Timonen (current Flyer)
Currently on his i-pod: hip hop (explains the dancing...)
Favorites:
Player as a kid: Scott Niedermayer (I forgive you Sami, you didn't know any better!)
Coyotes Jersey: White (mine too!!)
TV show: Entourage
Movie: Hangover
Video Game: Tiger Woods
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