#10 Dmitri Kulikov – 2009 NHL Entry Draft Rankings

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Christopher Ralph is a hockey writer with a focus on prospects and the entry draft, as well as the Leafs’ correspondent here at THW.

“Full Potential” Prospect Profile:

Dmitri Kulikov #3

 

Please “Click Here” for “Notes Up Front” and the “Legend” for various topics covered below, as well as a running live updated NHL 2009 Draft rankings.

9. Dmitry Kulikov – Moscow, RUS – 6’1″ – 195 lbs – QMJHL – Drummondville – D
One-Timer: Deadly on the powerplay, Kulikov displays tremendous hockey sense and vision. The offensive d-man is exudes great confidence as well, helping him acclimatize rapidly to the North American brand of hockey. The talented puck-moving blueliner also boasts a great shot and is an excellent passer. Interestingly, at this year’s WJC he was a cast in more of a shutdown role and adapted nicely to what was asked of him.

NHL Player(s) Comparison: Sergei Zubov, Andrei Markov

Bio/Interview Links:

http://www.defendingbigd.com/2009/6/16/911846/2009-nhl-draft-profile-d-dmitry

http://www.mynhldraft.com/2009/NHL-Draft-Profiles/Dmitry-Kulikov

Scouting Combine Performance:

  • Gare Joyce reported Kulikov helped his cause via the interview process.
  • TSN staff stated that Dmitri had an average workout.

International Tournaments: As noted above, he was cast as a shutdown defenseman, but still managed to register 4 assists.

ETA = 2 to 3 years

Risk-Reward Analysis: Risk = 2/5   Reward = 5/5

NHL Potential: 1st pairing offensive blueliner, with 2-way ability

Fantasy Hockey Potential: Offensive = 8.5/10   Defensive = 7.5/10

Other Rankings:

  • ISS: 10
  • CSB: 11-NA
  • TSN: 11
  • THN: 11

Video Links: (Shown briefly – ranked #9)

 

 

 

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