Washington Capitals Draft Prospect: Denis Guryanov
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
It’s never too early for the Washington Capitals to start thinking about the NHL draft. The Washington Capitals gave up their second, third, and fourth round picks in this year’s draft to obtain the services of Tim Gleason and Curtis Glencross. This makes their first round draft pick that much more important to them. Luckily, this is a deep draft, so no matter where the Washington Capitals draft, there will be talent available.
As of March 21st, the Washington Capitals will be drafting 20th overall. According to Draftsite’s mock draft, the Capitals could draft forward Denis Guryanov from the KHL. The Capitals have had success with drafting Russians, so why not continue that trend?
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Currently, Guryanov is ranked as the seventh best European skater by NHL Central Scouting. He’s a 6’2″ wing. He shoots left handed, but he can play on either side, though he is officially listed as a right wing. Here’s what Draftsite has to say about him:
"Pro-style wing whose powerful legs get him to the front. Has shown his superiority, starting in the Five Nations Tourney, by making plays and taking shots while completely covered due to the size and hands. Terrific heavy shot and quick release. Strong board player and and on the cycle. Plays a 200 foot game with strong defensive commitment. Potentially a top end pro-style wing prospect who gets most boxes checked in terms of size, skill, skating, hockey sense, hands and power. His powerful stride makes him almost unstoppable as he goes were he pleases and can release his cannon shots while defenders attempt to drape themselves on him. Strong three zone player who is very responsible on the back check. Owns the wall and his powerful stride lets him bull his way towards the net and unleash the puck while in full-flight. Was the biggest standout in the World Junior A Challenge were he was dangerous on most of his shifts. There is always a question with the Russian prospects who haven’t committed to coming over to North American. Are they willing, will they adjust to the culture/language, or feel more comfortable to stay home?"
Guryanov sounds like he would be a good fit for the Washington Capitals. As Draftsite notes, he was a huge standout in the World Junior A Challenge. He was the best player on the ice every time he took a shift and has a strong two-way game. Usually, that’s an excuse used for people who aren’t that good on offense (see: Troy Brouwer), but every time I watch Guryanov, he impresses me. He’s a two-way forward because he’s very good in all three zones of the ice. He has the potential to be a top six power forward for the Washington Capitals.
I wouldn’t worry about his KHL stats. He’s a teenager (yes, he’s only 17) playing against grown men. Most of the players he plays against have likely been playing hockey since before he was born. When he plays against his peers, he’s extremely dominant. That’s what matters at this stage of his development.
Of course, there is a huge red flag that the Washington Capitals should at least think about. He’s from Russia. Drafting Russian players is always a bit of a gamble because you never know how committed they are to playing in the NHL. Some players would rather play in the KHL. Considering the Washington Capitals don’t have another pick until the third round, that’s a concern that should be very real for the Caps. Is that a gamble worth taking in a draft that has so many talented forwards?
I think the Washington Capitals would be a good fit for Guryanov as well. They already have Alex Ovechkin, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and Dmitry Orlov. The trio will all likely be with the Caps when Guryanov comes to North America. I think having guys like them would be a great thing for Guryanov because Russian prospects typically have a tough time adjusting to the NHL life. Guryanov would have three guys who went through exactly what he would be going through. They’d be able to give him advice and immediately give him three guys to look up to.
What do you think Washington Capitals fans? Should the Caps draft Guryanov? Let me know in the comments!