Russian winger is one of the drafts top talents, full of speed and elite offensive skill. A silky smooth, puck wizard who often looks as though he has the puck taped to his stick. Just knows how to finish, is absolutely lethal around the net but can also dish a seeing-eye pass though sticks and legs equally well. Has loads of natural talent, hockey sense and offensive creativity. Has the ability to lift you out of your seat but also the ability to disappear at times, especially when the play goes into his own zone. He can also become undisciplined and take bad penalties when things are not going his way. Has earned a reputation in multiple International competitions as a diver, with his small size and the Russian nationality; he leaves plenty of questions about his NHL future. Made his biggest jump of the year up the draft rankings at the U18’s in Germany where he destroyed the competition to the tune of three points-per-game. (May 2011)