Sasha Pastujov

A Michigan native with ties to Bradenton, Florida, is high end passer and attacker with keen hockey sense and good skating base and escapability. Projects to be the highest drafted Pastulov, as he seems to have passed his two older brothers in scoring ability. Poses a definite problem for opposing teams, as he is developing his shot that can be taken from outside the perimeter, as well being a close-in scoring threat, with his clean passes from the outside to teammates breaking to inside the circles. Sets up on the half wall on the power play. More of an average skater, but is strong on his skates and strong on the puck, he displays agility due to his fine edgework, and excellent lateral mobility is his possessions and will create space for himself to allow his elite passing skills to go to work. Although he will benefit with more time in the weight room in order to add more power to his skating stride and first couple steps, he can use his existing speed and puck handling prowess to navigate the neutral zone and on zone entires and set ups on the attack. He separates himself from opponents, creating space that allows him anticipate and deliver slick passes on the sticks of his attacking teammates. Smooth seam passer. In the BioSteel Prospect game of US Prospects, he was arguably the best player on the Blue team. Displays a high hockey IQ,, vision and anticipation,and works hard in the dirty areas. Has a pro-calibre shot and finds his way to the net. In the World Under-18 he was the USA's most consistent offensive threat, despite an emphasis to shut him down. He had five goals. Another player that seems to have raised unnecessary concern about his skating. He has a feel for the attack zone and I dont see his skating negating his ability to squeeze into scoring crises or find open ice. Fires that one timer in one motion. As most USA Developmental players, he is has a keen understanding of his job in the other two zones. He is committed to the University of Notre Dame

  —Bill Placzek—