[sureLoss]

per the AHL transactions page.

Monster d-man

http://www.hockeysfuture.com/article...l/#more-120203

Oleg Yevenko, D
Senior, University of Massachusetts (Hockey East)

One of the more intriguing players among this year’s collegiate free agent crop is towering UMass senior defenseman, Oleg Yevenko. At 6’7” and 230 pounds, it’s hard to miss the Minsk, Belarus native.

Yevenko, who serves as one of the Minutemen’s assistant captains, has posted five points (all assists) in 33 games. He leads UMass with 72 blocked shots and ranks second on the team with 49 penalty minutes.

Yevenko is a physical, defensive defenseman who uses his enormous frame, strength and especially long reach quite well in taking away space and shutting down opposing players. He is one of the nation’s best shot-blockers and excels on the penalty kill. Although Yevenko doesn’t rack up many points, he does have some offensive ability. He possesses a very heavy shot and can get pucks to the net. His passing skills are also quite good. In addition to his sheer size, scouts have also taken notice of Yevenko’s physicality. He does an excellent job of finishing his checks and can deliver some bone-jarring hits.

While most collegiate players add size to improve their game, it has been the opposite for Yevenko. His combination of a lighter frame and vastly improved skating has allowed him to be a more mobile and effective rearguard, which can be seen in his stepped-up transition game. Although Yevenko lacks foot speed, he still moves well for a big man.

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48315