| Draft Type | Round | Pick | Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Projection | 4 | 98 |
This is actually one of the better crops of Russian prospects with one of the puzzling question marks being Velikov, not ever mentioned in the same light as the top two rounders, even though he has high skills and a good character. He is good skater built like a block of granite and is stronger than the average bear. Smart in his offensive zone and transitional play, and displays strong balance (but lacks an explosive stride) and is very difficult to stop when he has a head of steam, and bowls through checkers, drawing penalties. He is always ready to shoot. Terrific skater who can get his temper going, and then you better watch out! He doesn't seem to be putting worth strong efforts this season, puzzling since he so hockey smart and showed calm but committed efforts each shift. This season he has shown terrific efforts when he is under pressure and feels he has something to prove. I don't doubt an NHL team takes a flier on him in final three rounds, solely based on his potential and continuing maturity.
--Bill Płaczek--
