Alexander Avtsin Profile

Skating

8
Stickhandling

8
Defensive play

6
Scoring

9
Hockey sense

7
Size

8

Grade: 7.5B

History

2008-09: Alexander Avtsin had a great season with Dynamo's junior farm team as he scored 110 points in 76 games, enriched with 130 PIMs. He skated with Russia-91 national team without having a big role, but in June he was drafted by the Canadiens and by the Quebec Remparts in the CHL Import Draft.

2009-10: After refusing to report to the QMJHL, Avtsin started the season in the newly formed MHL, then he got picked up by Dynamo Moscow's main team and he had a very good season with three goals and six assists. Unfortunately he got a wrist injury in January, when he was in great shape and started consistently scoring. In July 2010 Dynamo and Avtsin parted ways and thus Avtsin will spend the 2010-11 season within the Montreal Canadiens system.

Avtsin Talent Analysis

Avtsin is a player who mixes size, speed and technique to be a very effective player. Avtin likes to play the off wing, thus constantly getting room for using his good one-timer. He can be an entertaining player, stickhandles well and dribbles through defenseman. He is also a good forechecker and can deliver good hits exploiting his big 6'3", 200 lbs frame. Regarding defensive play, he uses his good speed to skate back in the own zone, but he needs some work over it and over physical play and overall hockey intelligence, but it will come with experience.

Avtsin Future

Avtsin has the potential to become a first line player in the future for the Habs. He has an NHL body and this will definitely help him in adapting to the smaller ice surface. Most likely Avtsin will need one season in the AHL with the Hamilton Bulldogs to get a regular spot with the Canadiens during the 11-12 season.

Avtsin Watch

September 27, 2010
Avtsin was sent down to the Hamilton Bulldogs of the AHL