Soini split his season across multiple levels, suiting up for Ilves in Liiga, their U20 squad, and representing Finland internationally. The stat line (one goal, five assists in 26 games across levels) does not jump off the page, but the context matters. He is a 2006-born right-shot defenseman playing in a men’s league at 19/20, and the scouting reports consistently point to the physical and defensive tools that NHL organizations value. EP’s draft guide noted solid mobility and good four-step quickness in breaking forechecks. At 6-2, 187 pounds, the frame is already pro-ready, and the right shot at defense is a premium asset. He played on Finland’s top pairing at the World Junior Summer Showcase and was scouted by EP’s Lassi Alanen in both games. The DobberProspects observation pegged him as a “better in real life than fantasy” defenseman, and until the offensive output grows, that assessment holds. Minnesota took him one pick after Kiviharju and views both as long-term blue-line investments. Fantasy relevance is minimal. Soini projects as a bottom-pair shutdown defenseman with limited scoring upside, making him a pass in standard formats. Deep dynasty holders can monitor if the Liiga role expands in 2026-27.

Soini certainly earned his frequent flier miles in 2024-2025, suiting up for Ilves in the Liiga, their U20 squad in the SM-Sarja, representing Finland in the WJC, and playing some games in the Championship Series. All told, he played 26 games, and provided a goal and five assists throughout. The fifth-round pick by Minnesota should get a chance to plant his skates in the Liiga next season and try to build some consistency. He has looked the part of a two-way, ‘better in real life than in fantasy’ defenseman so far, and until he piques our interest with some offensive output, he isn’t worth a stash at the present time.

Soini was selected 140th overall by the Minnesota Wild.

Sebastian Soini is a defensive defenseman with a profile that NHL organizations tend to appreciate. The mobile, right-handed defender has proved this season that he can play composed and mature hockey amongst the men. Soini uses his size to his advantage when clearing opponents from the net. He has good gap control that allows him to defend the rush effectively. – Anni Karvinen

Sebastian Soini is Finnish blueliner, who’s put up a solid season playing mostly in Mestis, the second Finnish pro league. The most notable thing with Soini’s play has been his composure under pressure. He can make good decisions with the puck in his own end and that combined with his good frame (6’2″ & 194 lbs) is something that NHL organizations like to see. – Anni Karvinen