I like the idea of drafting more Russian (and Belarussian) players.
a) These are decent prospects
b)I think having guys from similar backgrounds is important to convince these guys to come here.
Take Rafikov for example. When he was drafted, the Flames didn't have a single Russian in the system. Show up to training camp with no familiar faces. Nobody to speak Russian with / help get acquainted with North America. Likely staring down the prospect of slugging it down in Stockton. Not a great proposition when you can earn a stable paycheque in the KHL.
Who knows, these Russians/Belarussians might all be duds, but I like the gamble.
|