Bogdan Yakimov – Reaktor – 2013 NHL Draft

Bogdan is a big bodied Russian forward. He missed the 2012 NHL Entry Draft by about 3 weeks and has a massive 6’4” frame to work with.  He is already stronger than many prospects available in this year’s draft. Yakimov had a

strong season in the MHL, already looking like he can handle playing in the men’s league. Bogdan is extremely good at protecting the puck, whether it is rushing up the ice, driving to the net or taking the puck out of battles along the wall. He uses his frame very intelligently and can play a power forward’s type of game.

Bogdan also has an excellent shot that he gets a lot of power behind. He can put the puck in the back of the net on a consistent basis. Yakimov will pass the puck, but he would much rather shoot whenever possible. Bogdan has several options available to him in his NHL Draft year. He could make the jump to the CHL, via the Import Draft or remain in Russia. If he does this, there is a good chance he gets a look in the KHL, but may not get a ton of ice time there. He could also stay in the MHL, where he could become a big impact with another year of development under his belt. Either way, look for Yakimov to be one of the best Russian players available for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.