Colorado Avalanche Projected Stats: Centers

Jan 8, 2015; Raleigh, NC, USA; Buffalo Sabres forward Mikhail Grigorenko (25) skates with puck against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Hurricanes defeated the Sabres 5-2. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports

Mikhail Grigorenko

2014-15:

GP: 25
G: 3
A: 3
P: 6
PIM: 2
+/-: -10

Mikhail Grigorenko has had a troublesome start into his NHL career. First, he was rushed into the league in his draft year, but got sent back to the QMJHL’s Quebec Remparts after 25 games. He then came back to the Sabres organization to play in two AHL playoff games. The next season, Grigorenko earned a roster spot once again, but again, he was sent back to the QMJHL after close to 20 games.

He split the 2014-15 campaign between the Rochester Americans and Buffalo Sabres, recording 27 points in 43 AHL contests, and six points in 25 games for the Sabres. He didn’t get to where the Sabres wanted to have him, so they shipped him to Colorado.

2015-16:

GP: 82
G: 13
A: 19
P: 32
PIM: 12
+/-: 0

Grigorenko’s stats are extremely hard to predict, because it all depends on how he will respond to the change of scenery. If he makes it to the top six, possibly playing on Duchene’s wing, his stats could really shoot up. If he plays on the third or fourth line, though, we shouldn’t expect too much.

Personally, I expect Grigorenko to start the season on the third line, centering Blake Comeau and Dennis Everberg. That would be a line that has a lot of scoring potential. Grigorenko could also get time on the powerplay, which would allow him to record 30+ points.

Next: Carl Soderberg