MAJOR | Canucks make an announcement regarding a top prospect: It's confirmed they've made a steal in 2022

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Felip Gosselin
October 30, 2023 (2:53 PM)

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The Canucks have excelled during their latest draft, and now their 2022 Draft Class is starting to look like the best they've had since forever. They kicked

7TH ROUND PICK RUNNING THE SHOW IN THE OHL?

Kirill Kudryavtsev was the Canucks 7th Round Selection in 2022, mainly known for his defensive attributes; his offensive production spiked big-time over the last two years. Acknowledged as one of the best defenders last year, he has now taken matters into his hand offensively, and both the OHL and the Canucks have recognized his accomplishments:

'#Canucks prospect Kirill Kudryavtsev named OHL Player of the Week after scoring two goals and notching four assists in three games! 💪 #BuildingBlue

The 208th selection in the 2022 Draft collected 39 points in 68 games during his rookie season, then proceeded to up his game with 50 (42 assists) in 67 games and now counts 15 (13 assists) through 14 games this year. Talk about a modern-day 'stay-at-home' defenseman.

''One of the smartest activators in the draft class, Kudryavtsev's upside comes from both supporting the offence and creating it. He anticipates hand-offs along the boards, using that space to shoot. The give-and-go from the point features heavily in his game, often used to create a shot for himself or a set up a teammate across the slot. When he's on the weak side, he consistently identifies seams, then fills them without exposing his team to risk.''

- -EliteProspects 2022 NHL Draft Guide

The Canucks made no mistake and signed him to his entry-level contract last year. The youngster could be joining the Abbotsford Canucks perhaps at the end of this year or next year, as he'll then be a 20-year-old.

It's been a while since a 7th rounder has looked this good, and if the Canucks properly develop him, they could have a diamond in the rough on their hands.