Quote:
Originally Posted by Fire of the Phoenix
How does anyone even know anything about Rafikov? Is it from the wjhc where people saw him play a game or two? To me he's a guy drafted in the 7th round who is very unlikely to ever even come over here. Not sure how, with that info, anyone could rank him above Agostino. Agostino made clear and remarkable progress last year in his first pro season, Rafikov is a mystery.
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There was something else besides the World Juniors that I remember watching him in, Russian Super Series maybe?
Regardless, he's a 20 year old, decent sized, smooth skating dmen that has played very well in the tournaments I've seen him in. I barely remember Agostino's stint with the Flames two years ago and I didn't watch the AHL this year. I can take peoples word that he played well in the AHL this year, but his window is closing.
I don't think the 7th round is a reflection of Rafikov's ability. There were only 8 Russian players taken in his draft year. He probably would've been a 4th round pick in the early 2000s drafts. He'd probably be a 3rd round pick if he was Canadian/American/Western European.
Sometimes you have to go with the mystery box. He's playing the KHL this year as a 20 year old. Of all our prospects, he's the one I'm most curious to see how he does.
Agostino is closer to being a NHL player. But I think this is one of the times when the mystery box potential wins out.