Karl Sterner
2023-24 Team: Frölunda HC J20 (J20 Nationell)
Date of Birth: March 29, 2006
Place of birth: Trollhättan, Sweden
Ht: 6-foot-3 Wt: 192 pounds
Shots: Left
Position: Left Wing
NHL Draft Eligibility: Eligibility for the first year of 2024
Levels
Despite not being featured on many levels in the hockey world leading up to the 2024 Draft, Swedish-born winger Karl Sterner stands out when you watch him play because of his large, 6-foot-3 frame. In his first full season with the Frölunda J20 team, he showed that he is more than just big, showing a strong offensive game while amassing 34 points this season.
In the offensive zone, Sterner can use his length and body to help protect the puck away from his opponents, helping to open up more space and time for him to make a play with the puck. When given space with the puck on his stick, he can display a powerful shot that is greatly aided by his quick release. Even with that being said, there are times when he struggles a bit to get space with the puck due to his ability to hold on and not one of his game’s strong suits. His strong skating ability has helped him in his offensive game. His length also comes into play, as he can use long strides to get down the ice quickly for a player his size.
Related: THW 2024 NHL Draft Guide
Sterner’s skating is reflected in his offensive and defensive plays. His ability to move has helped him position himself well in the defensive position. His length and reach are evident on the defensive end, as he can use his stick to disrupt plays that his opponents try to make against him. However, his shortcomings are reflected in his defensive game due to a lack of consistent play and involvement in his position. This led to him coming out of the wrong position, which led to him getting high chances from his opponents. Overall, Sterner has the tools to be an NHL player at some point, and being one of the younger prospects in this year’s draft class with raw talent should help him in the long run.
Some THW Draft profiles
Karl Sterner – NHL Draft Projection
While Sterner showed solid offensive play in his first full season with the J20 team, his inconsistency and shortcomings will likely push him into the sixth or seventh round of the 2024 Draft. Because of his young age and talent, the organization may take a chance if they believe they can get more out of him and fully develop his game as he grows.
Measurements
“Sterner is a striker who is willing to get involved and disrupting the opposition is his biggest threat. He rarely wastes an opportunity to complete his assessment, but he does so in a way where he almost always goes over the chest and is nowhere near the ‘line’ where he needs to back things off. He doesn’t give himself freedom and he’s not cheap, he’s just strong in finishing his person physically. And he can always do it with his big frame.” – Aaron Vickers, FCHockey
“Sterner has great size and is physically ready to play pro sports. I really like how he uses long strides to get up to speed and get into space, then just slide and look for the best passing option. Off the puck, Sterner tends to poise with great composure within the offensive zone. I was left with the feeling that he is more of a spectator than an actor, and this happens both in the offensive zone and in the defensive zone when he plays off the puck. ” – Arttu Myllymaki, FCHockey
Power
- Sterner has a large frame and is very willing to use it to his advantage.
- For his size, he has strong skating skills that help in all three areas of the ice.
- He uses his height well in the defensive position when he is fully engaged.
- He shows a strong shot by releasing quickly when given the opportunity.
Under Construction – Improvements To Be Made
- Although he seemed to improve throughout the season, his catching at times limited his offensive game.
- He finds himself not involved in the defensive game much less. He must be a fully committed player.
- Even if he’s willing to throw his body around, adding muscle and weight can help him get to the next level.
NHL Power
With his size and offensive game, Sterner could end up being a fourth line player who can bring power with his strong skin, physical play, and aggressive offense. This obviously depends on his growth and maturity as he continues to gain more experience and potentially move up the hockey ladder.
Risk Reward Analysis
Risk: 2.5/5, Reward: 3/5
The Power of Fantasy Hockey
Offense: 5/10, Defense: 4/10
Achievements/Awards
Sterner played on the Swedish U18 World Championship team this year, tallying one assist in seven games he played in the tournament.
Karl Sterner’s statistics
Videos
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