Many people underestimate him due to last year but that CSKA team was stupidly stucked (they had 14 defenders), he was put off the PPs and his ice time was limited to 14 or so minutes, due to the fact that he was having intentions of going to NA and possible verbal agreement with Leafs. Also we got Zaitsev from them in the similar fashion. I would try to explain the best what type of player he is. Some say he is more mobile Polak.. that is not true..
He is top-4 calibre D-man. I watched a lot of games and in terms of playing style he reminds me of Drew Doughty (of course much lower level) in terms of puck movement, defence-to-offence transition, shot, skating, defensive abilities and smart plays in his own zone, also he is not scared to lay a hit or two. There had been times when he had gone coast to coast with puck on his stick and past defenders so he is not completely defensive defender. More like two-way defender with good skating, reliable defence and transition. Also he is a warrior in the rink and a Leafs fan, since he wouldve come to NHL just for the Leafs. Many people would be pleasantly surprised by his performances