The big Russian forward has good mobility and decent playmaking skills. He sees the ice well and can handle the puck with his soft hands. He can also finish but will look to pass first and foremost. He is strong and protects the puck well. Petrov tends to be invisible when overly physical play is involved. He also does not play a defensive responsible game often leaving his zone early to start the rush. His consistency is an issue as he has had games where he has not put forth an effort and then some games he dominates. (May 2008)