LHD Artyom Kulakov,6'2"201lbs (Omskie Yastreby,MHL): 29gp/4g/8a/12pts,39PIM. AK was committed to joining the Erie Otters for this season (2nd round, 82nd overall in the 2020 CHL Import Draft), but Covid put the kibosh on that. He's a solid defensive defenseman, but I don't think enough credit is given to his offensive game-his 12pts in 29 MHL games is 3rd for defensemen under 18 in p/gp. Solid, all-around skater with good acceleration and decent edges, agility, and balance. His positioning is solid in all 3 zones, but he leans to playing a defense-first style. He's solid and dependable, and doesn't make many mistakes in his own zone-smart, and calculated with his stick, he breaks up passes on the rush, and doesn't gets deked or fooled. Keeps passing lanes blocked on the cycle, and protects his goalie by tying up sticks and playing physically. He defends his blueline very well, and is adept at denying entries. In the other end of the rink, he reads the play very well, and contributes without risking anything defensively. He knows when to pinch in the zone to create opportunities, or keep pucks alive, without the risk of giving up chances against-and he knows when to retreat to snuff out the rush. One of his specialties is his creative breakout passes that he gets to his forwards in stride, which enable the transition. AK plays very much on the safer side, which makes him a defensive stalwart, but eats into his offensive numbers. Make no mistake though, there's more offense here if he can round out his game. Despite being a good skater, he needs to add another gear, and a better top-speed. Look for him in the later rounds.
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