McGlassbangers
Registered User
Age: 19
Height: 6'5
Weight: 232lbs
Position: Center
Drafted: 2013, round 3, #83 overall
13/14 - KHL: 33gp 7+5=12, 2PIM, +1
13/14 - MHL: 5gp 4+2=6, 0PIM, +2
13/14 - U20: 7gp 1+1=2, 4PIM, +2
eliteprospects.com:
hockeysfuture.com:
futureconsiderations.ca:
thescoutingreport.org:
hockeyprospectus.com
As it is already confirmed that Yakimov will join the Oklahoma City Barons in 14/15, I figured to create a thread for my favourite Oilers prospect. Like you see from the scouting reports, Yakimov isn't your prototypical Russian player. He has a lot of offensive talent, but Yakimov's biggest strength is his defensive game. He's monster at faceoffs, he has great positioning and he is able to steal the puck away from opponents with his long reach. Also, when he gets the puck, it's nearly impossible to take it away from him. His puck protecting is ridiculously good and he's able to make great passes after having the puck for a long time in the offensive zone. He has received a lot of flack because of his below average skating, but he looked surprisingly fast in the U20 WJC's.
Personally, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he made his NHL debut next season.
If he busts, you can blame me because of the title.
Height: 6'5
Weight: 232lbs
Position: Center
Drafted: 2013, round 3, #83 overall
13/14 - KHL: 33gp 7+5=12, 2PIM, +1
13/14 - MHL: 5gp 4+2=6, 0PIM, +2
13/14 - U20: 7gp 1+1=2, 4PIM, +2
eliteprospects.com:
Yakimov is a large center with a terrific set of hands. Owns great playmaking ability and vision. Is very hard to knock off the puck.
hockeysfuture.com:
At 6’4 and 201 pounds, Yakimov is a monster on the ice. He has a strong hockey sense and good positional play, which makes up for his sub-par skating skills. He has impressive hands and good offensive skills considering his lack of foot speed. His size makes him a menace in his own end and hard to knock off of the puck in the offensive zone, but it is unclear whether or not he will have the top level skill to earn him a top-six spot at the NHL level.
Yakimov will need more time to develop and will hope to make the jump to the KHL, which will be a step up from his current second-tier squad. His skills are strong in both ends and his offensive numbers are respectable at this point, but it still remains to be seen as to how he will measure up at the higher level.
futureconsiderations.ca:
Yakimov is a big, tough center who thrives in the face-off circle where he uses his size and strength to over power opponents… He’s solid at both ends of the ice and gets most of his goals and points by getting his nose dirty around the net.
thescoutingreport.org:
Yakimov is a physical monster who is still finding out exactly what he can, and can't do with his frame... Pretty effective skater for his size and does a good job of getting where he needs to go... Has a good skill level but fails to really accomplish much at times... More of a swing-for-the-fence type of pick as a meddling compete level limits his ability to play a Bottom 6 role.
hockeyprospectus.com
Yakimov had a decent season playing in the second-tier Russian pro league, and he was a final cut from the Russian World Junior squad. He is a big center, measuring in at about 6'5". He may not have the top-end tools of a typical top Russian prospect, but he is talented and he plays a good power game. His hands are above average, and while he can certainly make some moves and carry the puck into the opposing zone, he is not an overly creative forward. He also has pretty good hockey sense, as he makes quick decisions, sees the ice well, and positions himself effectively. As mentioned, he is a big body player, but he could use some more muscle to fill out and make the most of his frame. Still, he is effective when protecting the puck on the boards, and he will drive the net, making use of his physical assets. His main issue is his skating, as it is below average. His top speed and his first few steps are subpar, and while has shown some improvement, he must continue to progress in that area.
As it is already confirmed that Yakimov will join the Oklahoma City Barons in 14/15, I figured to create a thread for my favourite Oilers prospect. Like you see from the scouting reports, Yakimov isn't your prototypical Russian player. He has a lot of offensive talent, but Yakimov's biggest strength is his defensive game. He's monster at faceoffs, he has great positioning and he is able to steal the puck away from opponents with his long reach. Also, when he gets the puck, it's nearly impossible to take it away from him. His puck protecting is ridiculously good and he's able to make great passes after having the puck for a long time in the offensive zone. He has received a lot of flack because of his below average skating, but he looked surprisingly fast in the U20 WJC's.
Personally, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he made his NHL debut next season.
If he busts, you can blame me because of the title.
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