[PeteMoss]

Rafikov, who would like to wear number 87 in Calgary as that is the number he has worn for a few years already, is still under contract with Lokomotiv for this season, with his deal set to run out on April 30th, 2015. Apparently, the 19-year-old defender still has not made a firm decision on where to spend the 2015-16 season.

“It’s early to talk about the future now,” Rafikov said. “This year, I would like to get a full-time spot on the Lokomotiv senior team first, then where to spend the next season… I think I’ll think about it at the end of the [current] season.”


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The defenseman also admitted a preference for playing a more offensive role from the back end.

“I prefer playing more like an offensive defenseman,” stated Rafikov. “I like helping my forward teammates, (and to) get on the attack myself. But of course, as a defenseman, the most important thing is not to allow goals to the opposition.”

Full article here - http://www.hockeysfuture.com/article...ues-in-2014-15