Hanelt Ready To Prove Worth, ‘Make Own Statement’ With Capitals

ARLINGTON, V.A. — Washington Capitals prospect Håkon Hanelt stands by the glass, staring out at the rink before him. There’s a wonder in his eyes as, behind glasses and a wide smile, he takes in an NHL dream unfolding in front of him.

At just 19 years old, Hanelt’s still just a teenager. Off the ice, he’s a fun-loving guy who loves going out to restaurants, exploring cities and watching TV. He’s a music fan and admitted binge-watcher who’s gotten through the entire Lucifer series three times. But at the same time, he’s far from the typical teen; he acts well beyond his years, and after not getting to truly hit the ice for last year’s camp and overcoming adversity, he is ready to show what he can do.

“Feels awesome [to be here],” Hanelt said. “I finally can prove what I’m capable of.”

Hanelt was born in Berlin, Germany, and has always had a passion for the sport. He grew up watching NHL hockey, which was constantly on TV at home. His father also played, and at the age of two, Hanelt’s mom gifted him his first-ever hockey stick. The rest is history.

“I really loved it. I touched the ice for the first time when I was about three or something,” Hanelt recalled. “I really enjoyed it.”

Hanelt worked his way up the ranks, playing in every single position besides goalie, which he insists with a smile that he wouldn’t be good at. He prides himself on versatility after having played center, wing and defense over the course of his career. His two-way ability, vision and hockey IQ shined through, and at the age of 17, he made the pro jump.

In 2020-21, Hanelt cracked the DEL’s Eisbären Berlin (Polar Bears) roster and laced ’em up from 22 games, dishing one goal. He competed against grown men and put himself on the radar in his draft year overseas.

Haakon Hanelt, a 2021 #NHLDraft prospect, scored a beautiful goal for Germany today.

The German “B” team at the #DeutschlandCup got slaughtered by the men’s team 7-2, but Hanelt was still a standout and this goal was a nice highlight. pic.twitter.com/7T7fjp2wKj

— Steven Ellis (@StevenEllisTHN) November 6, 2020

Hanelt was NHL Central Scouting‘s No. 56 ranked international skater. He went to QMJHL’s Gatineau Olympique in the CHL Import Draft, and in July, his NHL dream came to life as the Capitals took him with their fifth-round pick, a potential late steal depending on how his transition to North America fared.

“[It was] an awesome feeling,” Hanelt…