Gregor Rasputinov [Rookie Profile] [1/2]

[Joobles 7]

Name: Gregor Rasputinov
DOB: February 14, 2000
Birthplace: Norilsk, Russia

Height: 71in (6ft1)
Weight: 200lbs
Position: LD
Handedness: Left
Shot Preference: Wrist

OVERVIEW

Gregor Rasputinov is projected to be a mid-round pick this season, offering a high offensive upside but carrying some defensive baggage. With some time and proper development, he could prove to be a highly effective low-risk puck-mover on the back end. Teammates generally praise his willingness to kickstart the rush and even drive deep as a puck-carrier at times. This corsi monster excels in seeing the ice before him and springing teammates with bullet-like stretch passes. Many teams will opt to avoid him due to his defensive pitfalls, but Rasputinov's prideful offensive style could find himself fitting in well on any powerplay in the league.

 

"A gamble that could see the team that selects him very happy in the future." - McGuire

"One of the brightest young offensively-minded players in the QMJHL" - McKenzie

"Proper defensive development could see this player as one of the most valuable in the VHL." - Dreger

"Not particularly fond of him." - Cherry

 

HOT TAKES

• Gregor "Russia's Greatest Cup Machine" Rasputinov is entering the draft following a decorated career in minor through junior. Being a key part of multiple successful campaigns with the Halifax Mooseheads and the Russian World Junior squad, the smooth-skating puck-moving defenseman enters the draft with high hopes to have a positive impact wherever he lands.
• As one of the premier powerplay quarterbacks in the league, Rasputinov finished his sophomore junior season with 48 of his 71 assists on the man-advantage.
• Despite his tight-gripped control of the play in the offensive zone, Rasputinov lacks the physical attributes to be a truly effective shutdown defenseman, often bullied in front of the net and often coming out on the wrong end of hits.

PROS

• Rasputinov is scouted for his exceptional skating ability, often using it to carry the puck out of sticky situations and exit his own zone with confidence.
• His ability to see passing lanes and trigger a laser-like pass has been compared to Penguins blue liner Kris Letang. A high offensive upside is in the cards for Rasputinov at any level of play.
• Rasputinov has looked impressive at training camp, displaying various times his ability to escape a tight forecheck and create a lopsided breakout.
• As previously mentioned, Rasputinov brings forth an excellent understanding of the transition game, pairing well with high-scoring forwards.

CONS

• His work on the man-advantage is the main talking point on his resume, for better or for worse. About 68% of Rasputinov's total points come on the powerplay, which makes some scouts hesitant due to possible even strength production struggles.
• Rasputinov also seems to find himself on the losing end of physical battles quite often, inspiring some to say he won't be able to keep up with the big leagues.
• Often caught out of place with greedy offensive plays, Rasputinov could use a mindset shift to focus on restraint.
• Rasputinov's leadership is often questioned due to a captaincy strip on the Mooseheads last season.

Edited August 10, 2018 by Joobles
Updated for word count.

[DollarAndADream 3,356]

Review:

Rah rah Rasputinov.

Love the Cherry, Dreger, McKenzie, etc quotes!

Solid Rookie Profile. Keep up the good work.