2015 NHL Draft Sleeper: D Vladislav Gavrikov
Vladislav Garikov is another physical defenseman, though he is playing in Russia. A rare object to find in Europe, Gavrikov likes to throw hits and play physical in all three zones. NHL CSS has him ranked 26th (EU skaters), ISS Hockey has him 49th, which seems a bit high, especially considering that they have Rasmus Andersson ranked 103rd.
Gavrikov is draft-eligible for a second time after being passes over by all 30 teams through seven rounds last year. What has changed is that he now has some KHL experience and also got to play a good amount of games for Russia’s U20 an men’s teams. He also captained Team Russia at the World Juniors and is the captain of his MHL team.
The Russian defenseman is mainly a defensive type, but also tries to develop an offensive game. His shot could improve, but his hockey sense is there and he knows how to handle the puck. Gavrikov is a good skater that is very good defensively. He likes to block shots, battles hard in the corners and throws hits.
Some team will take a chance on him this year and that team could be finding a true diamond in the rough.
Who do you think could be 2015 NHL Draft sleepers?
Next: Beichler's Full First Round Mock Draft
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