2011 Draft Prospect: Alexandr Khoklachev

(picture courtesy of sports.yahoo.com)

Statistics (2010-2011): Windsor Spitfires (OHL): 62GP 34G 36A 70P +7 28PIM

Although this incredibly skilled Russian is no Alexandr Lotsagoalev, he is expected to be yet another first round selection this June. These crazy russians always seemed to be ranked just outside the top ten or outside the first round all together. But if last years draft taught us anything, it was that Taranseko and Kuznetsov would be drafted much higher if done again. I think the same is true for Khoklachev. Not only does he have a cool name but he is also one of the best goal scorers in the draft. He may not have the size at only 5'11" but he takes the puck hard to the net. Koko as he is often called, is an offensive dynamo on a Windors Spitfire team that is lacking the talent it had in the past.

The skilled Russian center can take over games. He has had four goal games in junior and currently sits 31st in OHL scoring. Thats quite an accomplishment since he is second in rookie scoring. He is a gamebreaker and I wouldn't be surprised if he surpasses former first rounder Alexander Burmistrov. Speaking of first rounders, the only players on his team that are outproducing him are former first rounders Ryan Ellis and Zach Kassian. That's pretty good company.

As far as the Oilers go, I don't see them making a move for the Russian. Although he could be a steal with LA's pick, they will probably be looking at addressing need through the draft. Having said that, never say never. Odds are slim though. The Oilers have not taken a Russian under Stu McGregor (from 2008-2010) and the last Russian they took was Alexander Bumagin in the 6th round of 2006. The only high end Russians Edmonton has drafted in the new millenium were Roman Tesliuk (44th overall in 2004) and Alexei Mikhnov (17th overall in 2000).

Still, Khoklachev himself came to the OHL to be "drafted high". Although this may bring up some character issues, its not like staying in the KHL was a great alternative. You can't blame the kid for wanting to be drafted high in order to see his dream come true- playing in the NHL.