The NHL’s 2024 junior player auditions wrapped up in Nashville, signaling the next phase for hopefuls across North America and Europe. In total, teams from Canada and the United States selected 19 players from Russia, building on last year’s note that 23 Russian players heard their names called during the draft. The event showcased a mix of seasoned junior stars and promising newcomers ready to prove themselves at the highest level.
Among the standouts, the Arizona Coyotes added Lokomotiv defender Dmitry Simashev with the sixth overall pick. The Flyers followed soon after, securing SKA forward Matvey Michkov at number seven, a highly anticipated talent who has drawn attention for his goal-scoring instincts and competitive presence on the ice. Arizona moved again as they picked Daniil But from Loko’s system in the 12th slot, signaling a continued appetite for versatile, high-end prospects. Colorado then grabbed Mikhail Gulyaev from the avant-garde system with the 31st selection, reinforcing their depth on the back end and their plan to cultivate strong, puck-moving defensemen. The remaining Russians on the board were selected in later rounds, each choice reflecting the drafting team’s belief in the players’ potential to adapt to the North American game and the rigors of the league schedule.
The attention on Canadian and American franchises during the proceedings emphasized the importance of cross-border scouting networks and the ability to translate international talent to the NHL style of play. The larger narrative remains clear: teams aim to secure players who can eventually contribute at the junior and professional levels, bringing skill, adaptability, and a strong work ethic to their respective rosters.
Across the broader draft picture, the Chicago Blackhawks had previously secured Canadian forward Connor Bedard as the top pick in an event that drew global interest. The Anaheim Ducks joined the excitement by selecting forward Leo Carlsson with the second overall choice, reinforcing their plans for youthful speed and offensive creativity. Adam Fantilli’s selection at number three by the Columbus Blue Jackets further underscored the emphasis teams place on high-end center talent capable of driving play and providing leadership as they transition to the pro game.
During the proceedings, public comments from veterans and champions offered a candid lens on the journey ahead for Michkov and his peers. A notable voice, former Olympic champion and Stanley Cup winner Valery Kamensky, underscored the expectation that Michkov would show he earned his place with Philadelphia through strong performances with SKA and in subsequent junior league opportunities. The message reflected a broader consensus within the hockey community: aspiring players must consistently demonstrate their readiness to compete at the top levels, balancing skill with the mental edge required to thrive under pressure.
As the season advances, scouts, coaches, and analysts will continue to dissect each pick’s fit within team systems, prospects for development in North American leagues, and potential timelines for NHL readiness. The overall momentum points to a growing pipeline of Russian talent integrating into North American hockey, aided by the evolving dynamics of international development programs and the ongoing collaboration between European clubs and NHL franchises. Each selection contributes to a larger story about adapting to new ice, new teammates, and a different style of competition, with expectations for meaningful future impact on the rink. [Source: NHL draft coverage and franchise prospect reports]”}