Promising Russian rearguard with a heavy slap shot. Already understands his position and displays good feet, defensive recognition and the calm ability to make defensive plays. Has a very good back pedal and an excellent pivot. Solid in the middle zone and closes down the space on attackers before they get a head of steam. Not afraid to take responsibility with the puck in his end find a way to slip out of the zone whether it is a smart pass or a carry. He is a good skater who quickly gets going in his starts from stops. Opens his hips and lets the puck fly from the point. Russian backline import who has a nice two-way game, good functional strength and powerful four direction skater. Started the year missing games due to injury, but came back to nicely transition back in and there are glimpses of some real offensive potential there.Far from the finished product, there are many questionable instances that he still lacks sound decision-making skills or that he is not yet reading the ice well. He has big frame and pins players to the wall, and has time to grow his game.
—Bill Placzek—
--Bill Placzek--