Predators 1st-rounder Tolvanen turning heads at PyeongChang 2018

Nashville Predators general manager David Poile has earned a reputation as an astute hockey executive with a knack for plucking and developing talent from the NHL draft.

One of Poile's latest such finds is rising Finnish star Eeli Tolvanen.

Tolvanen was selected by the Predators with the second-last pick in the first round of the 2017 draft, 30th overall. He's been playing in Finland this season with KHL side Jokerit, making him eligible to compete for the Finns at the 2018 Olympics.

Related: Predators looking at bringing Tolvanen to NHL this season

(Photo courtesy: Getty Images)

Through the first two games of the men's tournament, Tolvanen has easily been the best forward at PyeongChang, racking up three goals and three assists - good enough for the tournament lead in points at six.

Obviously, this edition of the Olympics lacks current NHLers, but Tolvanen's early performance is impressive all the same - he is, after all, just 18 years old.

Tolvanen cut his chops in the USHL for the Sioux City Musketeers, and is a proven producer at every level he's played at. He followed up 92 points in 101 games for the Musketeers with 17 goals and 17 assists in 47 games for Jokerit this season.

While his two-game showing at PyeongChang 2018 is sure to drive up demand to have him playing in North America sooner than later, it's Tolvanen's sensational season in the KHL that should have Predators fans lining up to get his name stitched on their jerseys.

For 2nd straight time @jokerithc's @eeli1999 is KHL rookie of the month! #KHLfi pic.twitter.com/f1oiZLWN84

- KHL (@khl_eng) November 2, 2017

Tolvanen become the youngest player in the KHL to register a hat trick at 18 years and 123 days old, and for an encore, notched his second trick a few games later.

Back-to-back rookie-of-the-month honors cemented the teenager as a prospect with legitimate NHL potential.

World Junior Championship, KHL, Olympics - Tolvanen has turned heads everywhere he has played this year. Listed at 5-foot-10 and 187 pounds, he may have limited size, but he more than makes up for it with quick feet, pinpoint accuracy, and slick hands.

If Team Finland has a medal by the end of next week, Tolvanen will assuredly be a big reason.

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