Pavel Tyutnev

This second year eligible Russian falls in the jack of all trades, master of none category, as he isn’t big, necessarily dominant in his offensive game, but has clearly shown his value and versatility on the International circuit with a toolbox full of attributes to put his name in the draft conversation. Not tall, but strong and sturdy.   Well balanced on his pins, he has a good lateral movement at top speed and is strong in his carries and zone entries. A competent forechecker with deceptive gears, is strong on the wall and excellent down low whether positioning or leading the play. His hands are soft enough to pass the puck while in dirty areas, cutting in sharp directional changes and using his backhand or strong wrist shot, that he releases pretty quickly. Sees plenty of penalty killing minutes with his home club, but isn’t as of yet a real first unit power play guy. Displays an active stick on defense. I think he gets selected. Besides culture transition, will he be able to also take up the more confined role as winger, if asked. Stay tuned.

--Bill Placzek--