The Real Reason Behind the Canadiens Drafting Russian Prospects Revealed
Since Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes took over management of the Montreal Canadiens, the team has been drafting more and more Russian prospects. However, the reason behind this strategy offers a real advantage.
In recent years, Russian players have lost popularity with NHL teams.
Several factors have contributed to this shift over time.
When we think about Ivan Demidov being selected 5th overall, it's fair to wonder how high he would've gone if he were North American.
However, a new advantage has been revealed that explains why teams like the Canadiens are increasingly drafting Russian players.
Several reasons explain the benefits of drafting Russian players
It's known that Nick Bobrov plays a major role in scouting players like Ivan Demidov, Bogdan Konyushkov, Alexander Zharovsky, and Yevgeni Volokhin.
He visits Russian prospects and helps build strong ties with Russia.
The Canadiens have truly benefited since his hiring.
Recently, Ivan Demidov's agent, Dan Milstein, explained why teams are increasingly drafting Russian players.
"I think the Habs scouting department has been following this line of logic since Bobrov came in. Between picking a CHL/USHL player or a Russian player of equal skill, I wouldn't be surprised if teams start picking the Russian players because of the advantages explained here."
- HFTV
- HFTV
Dan Milstein points out that a Russian player develops in an extremely competitive league-the KHL.
Additionally, the NHL team that drafts them retains their rights until the player turns 27.
He cites Kirill Kaprizov and Artemi Panarin as examples.
These players can remain tied to their NHL team without requiring a contract, which means they don't take up one of the 50 contract slots.
Moreover, when they do eventually sign, it's through an entry-level deal with a reduced salary-offering significant financial advantages.
In short, it wouldn't be surprising to see more and more Russian players join the Montreal Canadiens in the coming years.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 29 | 193 ANSWERS The Real Reason Behind the Canadiens Drafting Russian Prospects Revealed Do you appreciate that the Canadiens are drafting more and more Russian players? | ||
| Yes | 135 | 69.9 % |
| No | 58 | 30.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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