How much of a Russian factor does Nichushkin have going against him?
I know Yzerman hasn't shied away from taking Russians, even those playing overseas during his time as GM. With a 5th-10th pick I doubt Tampa would overlook him because of the Russian factor, but might turn their attention to a more pressing need at the draft with a defensemen like Nurse.
And obviously Washington has the whole Ovechkin thing going for them.
But if Columbus has soured on Russians because of Filatov and Zherdev, maybe they overlook him with their pick. And if the other teams chose to go with less of a risk players as well, is there a chance he drops down to say around the 15th range or is he just too good?
If there's a chance I really hope the Flames try and move up with Pitt's 1st and whatever else they can to try and get him. A high risk, high reward player like that is exactly what you should be gambling on during a rebuild in my opinion.
|