Like we’ve done in the past, we’re profiling top prospects who may hear their names called in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft.
But this year, something new — we’re featuring special guest analysis from Ryan Kennedy, associate senior writer and prospect expert at The Hockey News.
Mikhail Sergachev (D)
Height: 6-foot-2 Weight: 208 pounds Shoots: Left
Team: Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Country: Russia
NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 8 North American skater
Kennedy says: “The three top defensemen in this draft all play in the OHL, but it was Sergachev who was named the league’s blueliner of the year. Pretty good for a rookie who had never played a season on North American ice.
“But Sergachev is very good. He can log big minutes and contribute in all situations – especially on offense. He has excellent size and according to one scout I spoke with, he’s the most NHL-ready defenseman in the draft.
“As a bonus for whichever team drafts him, Sergachev will be a key component of a Windsor team that hosts the Memorial Cup next year, so he’s guaranteed to be playing high-pressure hockey right to the end.”
Related: Benning doesn’t know if there’s a true No. 1 defenseman at this year’s draft
Click here for all the 2016 NHL Draft profiles.