[moon]

Originally Posted by Calgary4LIfe

Exactly how many scouts have said Monahan = Nichushkin? You may not like him as a prospect, or worry about his 'Russian Factor', but there is NO WAY that Monahan = Nichushkin. Nichushkin at this stage is definitely the more elite player, as evidenced by his constant hire rating, and 'whispers' that he might end up topping this draft class as the best skater. Russian Factor is a huge reason why he is being knocked down.

Not sure exactly how many think that but I have read plenty of reviews and lists that have him behind both Monahan and Lindholm. And I like Nichuskin just fine and have for awhile. I was impressed with him after the WJHC and have said good things about him on this site since then.

Thinking that he is at the same talent level as Monhan is not the same as 'not liking him" as a prospect.

He certainly is not "definitely" the more elite level player. Some think it, some don't but it is far, far from definite.

Nichushkin has a WAY hire ceiling than either Monahan or Lindholm. You can argue what the floor is, but the consensus amongst scouts out there is that talent-wise, Nichushkin IS elite, and many feel Monahan and/or Lindholm may only top out as very good 2nd line centers. I think Monahan and Lindholm will most likely develop into top line centers, but there ceilings are without a doubt lower than Nichushkin's.

That is not the consensus at all.

The issue with the translator didn't come up from Nichushkin's camp. It came up from Russian speaking fans who heard one of his interviews on TSN during the combine, and they stated that the translator was abysmal in not only translating his thoughts, but also the 'emotions' as well. I don't speak Russian myself, but that seems to be a bit of a consensus going there, but it may explain a thing or two.

Interesting to hear where it came from as it seemed unlikely that anyone would know if the translator was needed. Still seems fairly iffy in terms of an excuse but I guess it could be plausible.

Also, his contract status has been 'cleared up'. Dynamo paid a hefty fee for this kid, thinking he would play in the KHL for two years. He spoke with them and managed to wiggle out of the deal as long as if he doesn't make an NHL roster, he MUST return and play for them rather than the AHL. Seems fair to me, and development wise, seemed to be pretty good for Malkin, no?

I know his contract is cleared up now but that doesn't mean that can't change if he goes back to the KHL and signs a new deal. If Lindholm goes to SEL pretty safe to bet that he comes back easily if Nichuskin goes back not nearly the same assumptions can be made. I am sure that Nashville having a contract with Radulov seemed like his situation was "cleared up" at the time.