Player Information:
Name: Vasili Ponomaryov
Position: Center
League: Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)
Team: Shawinigan Cataractes
Shoots: Left
Age/DOB: 18-years-old, March 13th, 2002
Birthplace: Zelenograd, Russia, Europe
Height: 5’10
Weight: 180lbs
Potential Draft Round: Early Second
NHL Potential: Middle-Six Center
NHL Comparable: Evgeny Kuzetsov
Statistics:
Scouting Notes:
It comes as no surprise that goaltender Yaroslav Askarov is the top Russian in this year’s NHL Entry Draft. Ponomaryov is currently in his first year in the QMJHL and has been putting up solid numbers as he’s recorded 18 goals and 31 assists for 49 points in 57 games. He also played in 12 international games for Russia, putting up four goals and eight assists in those 22 games.
One of the best parts of the young Russian’s game is his stick handling and ability to make plays on the ice. The fact that he brings a left-handed shot and can play down the middle will be huge for any team that ends up selecting him. I don’t think there’s much more to look for when it comes to Pomaryov, but another year in the QMJHL will benefit him seeing that the only other experience he’s really seen has been at the MHL level. However, he’s shown his worth time again with the Russian National Team over the past few seasons.