Why Alexander Zharovsky Could Be Kent Hughes' Biggest Draft Steal Yet

When Kent Hughes traded with the Carolina Hurricanes to move up in the second round of the last draft, few could have predicted that the Canadiens' GM would select a legitimate candidate for the second-line center spot. Yet, that's exactly what seems to be happening.

In his first preseason game in the KHL against Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, Alexander Zharovsky played center on the third line, an unusual position for the natural right winger. He recorded a beautiful assist on Alexander Komarov's goal, helping his team tie the game 2-2 and force overtime. However, he missed his attempt in the shootout, which raised some concerns among fans about his finishing ability.

A few days later, against Metallurg Magnitogorsk, Zharovsky scored a spectacular goal, winning a battle along the boards, protecting the puck, and beating goalie Ilya Nabokov with a precise shot. That goal showcased the young man's creativity and determination. For that game, Zharovsky was back in his natural position at right wing.

In his most recent preseason game over the weekend, the Canadiens' early second-round pick from the last draft cemented his chances of starting the season in the top Russian league.

Not only was he an offensive threat throughout the game, but he also played center again and won the majority of his faceoffs.

Clearly, it's easier to understand why prospect experts like Simon "Snake" Boisvert gave Kent Hughes an almost perfect grade for his last draft.

What was thought to be the acquisition of an enigmatic Russian right winger may in fact turn out to be a strong prospect at center. The young man is putting himself in a position to generate as much excitement for KHL games as Ivan Demidov did last year.

The future looks bright in Montreal.