Vancouver Canucks Top 10 Prospect Ranking
5. D Nikita Tryamkin (5.8)
Whether Nikita Tryamkin is 6-foot-6 or 6-foot-8 tall — nobody really seems to know — he is a huge physical defenceman who could be a great addition to Vancouver’s weak defensive core.
While the “Russian factor” in the NHL Draft seemed somewhat proven to be a myth, Tryamkin is a prime example for what can happen with Russian players. Tryamkin was drafted out of the KHL by the Canucks in the third round in 2014 and always said he would only come over to North America if he is guaranteed to play in the NHL.
He and his agent made sure he was granted that wish, and they got an AHL out-clause implemented in his NHL contract.
Tryamkin is a great skater for his size. He moves around well and excels in his positioning and physicality. But, there is more to his game.
The Canucks are hoping Tryamkin can become a top-four two-way defenceman for the NHL club. He has a strong shot and makes good decisions with the puck in the offensive zone. However, he only had four goals and 11 points in 53 regular season games for Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg this season and added one assist in six playoff contests.
Even if his offensive production stagnates, Tryamkin could become a solid defensive defenceman. However, he will have a lot to prove in his first season of North American hockey.
Floor: back to Europe
Ceiling: NHL top-four defenceman
Next: Canucks Prospect #4