Zaitsev and Panarin are on the leading edge of a generation of Russian stars coming to North America from the Kontinental Hockey League in their 20s and making an immediate impact. Undrafted Panarin and Zaitsev needed no such adjustment period before thriving in the NHL as mid-20s rookies. “It’s always nice to see Russian guys come here, especially undrafted, try to get a shot here,” said Orlov, who quickly became a top-pairing defenceman for the Capitals. As Dadonov eyes a better NHL opportunity, executives can look at Radulov’s 54-point season with the Canadiens as a reason to take a chance on established Russian players. There was less certainty about Panarin and Zaitsev, but their success is an indication teams can expect plenty out of first-time NHL Russians when put in the right situations.

Source: National Post June 04, 2017 18:33 UTC