Islanders Draft Watch: Nikita Filatov
Each week, from now until the Draft, I will be profiling a new prospect from the Draft Pool and analyzing how their skills might or might not make them a good fit for the New York Islanders.
Nikita Filatov-LW-5′11, 160 lbs.- Shoots Right
After Steve Stamkos, Nikita Filatov is the most coveted offensive player in the Draft. A gifted playmaker, Filatov’s most outstanding attribute is his skating ability, drawing comparisons to a young Pavel Bure. His wrist shot is excellent and he has shown the ability to maintain a high intensity level throughout the course of a season. He possesses an impressive collection of moves which make him very difficult to defend against. He is definitely undersized for the NHL, however.
How he’d help: The Islanders were truly bereft of any dazzling offensive firepower last season, so Filatov’s skills would be a major boost to their goal scoring. His attitude is considered to be very good and he brings excitement to the rink. The only red flag regarding drafting him is the potential difficulty in prying him away from the Russian Hockey Federation, who are determined not to allow their young superstars leave in order to play in North America.
Author Bio
Frank has been a fan of the New York Islanders since seeing his first hockey game way back in 1977.
He reveled in the success of the Dynasty years and endured the time the team has spent in the basement of the league.
He also covers the Isles and New York Jets for www.sportstalkbuzz.com and writes a regular fantasy hockey column for www.rotoexperts.com.
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