Russian Prospect Signs with Reapers

[KaleebtheMighty 1,509]

It did not take long for the news to break. Only 5 hours after it was announced that Russian defenseman Victor Grachev was potentially entering the VHLM as a free agent, his signing with the Philadelphia Reapers was made apparent in hockey news.

"Victor want to play hockey. When contacted from club like Philadelphia, you don't say no," Grachev said after stepping off the plane at the Philadelphia International Airport. "It is [my] dream to play hockey in VHL, this is [the] best way to live." Although a Russian native, his hockey career looked destined for the VHLM. He was a prolific defenseman in St. Petersburg, commanding the ice with an average of 28:13 minutes per game. At just 16 years old, he's hopefully stepping into a position on a promising playoff team that could make their run for the cup this year. His 8G, 34A in just 52 games in St. Petersburg was among some of the best in Russia this year. Scouts report that Grachev's key strengths lie in his passing, defensive awareness, and puck handling. Although his weaknesses from the scouting report indicated a need for improvement in his skating and fighting abilities, there doesn't seem to be much concern from the Reapers front office in their quick offer. For the Philly faithful, there's hope that this signing will bring the personnel needed to raise the cup at the end of the year. 

 

When asked about the decision to quickly sign instead of waiting for a longer period of time for potential offers from other teams, Grachev merely shrugged. "Philadelpia looks good. They are making playoffs; Victor wants to play in playoffs. They have experience that will help Victor [get] better. Why wait for others when one of [the] best wants Victor? Victor want to play hockey." Armed with a bag of hockey gear and a small backpack, Grachev walked out of the terminal to await his ride, eager to play.

The sudden signing and determination from Grachev to play can only mean great things for Philadelphia. Upon asking how he would feel meeting players like Bob Helminen or Spencer Elsby, Grachev could only smile. "Victor want to play hockey and learn from great players. Players like them [can] really help young players new to team," he indicated before flagging down a BMW in the pickup lane. Russian pleasantries were discussed before Grachev entered the vehicle and drove off.

 

Either way, it seems like the Philadelphia Reapers netted themselves some great help on the blue line with signing Victor Grachev. Stepping out of a 4-3-0 run of games over the past few weeks, Grachev could be that extra push for the Reapers to net some more crucial wins at the tail end of the regular season to secure a playoff spot. Will they make a deep playoff run with the new Russian defenseman? Grachev all but guaranteed that the Reapers were making the playoffs when grabbing his bags. Well, at least Victor will get to play hockey. That seems to be the most important thing on his mind.

[Jayrad28 396]

Potential superstar?