Gabriel Eliasson is 6-foot-6 all day long and the Ottawa Senators jumped at the chance to get a player of his size and ability.

Just being big doesn’t make you a good hockey player. Embracing your obvious physical gifts does, and this tough defenceman knows what’s going to set him apart from his competition. 

“When I am on the ice, I am a very competitive guy who wants to win. Even if it’s a hit in a game. Outside of hockey, I am nice and humble,” Eliasson told EP Rinkside. “Hockey is a game for me. I want to win everything and I’m doing all I can to do my best. “

As players move up the ladder, winning puck battles becomes paramount. Some leagues keep these numbers a secret, but thanks to our partners at Hudl/Instat, we know that Eliasson won 55 percent of them. It’s simple, if he’s first, go