Small Russian import who displays a high pace offensive game with his quickness, puckhandling and shooting skills. Right now, he doesn’t give an honest effort when the puck is on the opposition’s stick, and that needs to improve radically. Has a quick first step and can make opponents miss all over the ice. He is strong in his puck pursuit in the attack zone, and will knock bigger players off the puck. There is no denying his quick release and snap and wrist shots or his ability to carry the puck in heavy traffic and creatively make plays. Handles hard passes. An effective passer and elusive puck carrier that stands out when the game is being played. Keeps puck in tight, and seems to sprint free from coverage make a move and get a goalie to open up. Terrific puckhandler at top speed.
–Bill Placzek–