Daniyar Aibatov – RHD – Sherbrooke Phoenix QMJHL
(25 Sep vs Victoriaville, 2 Oct vs Rimouski, 12 Oct vs Cape Breton)
He is a fluid, high-end skater with strong mobility and edgework that can allow him to close gaps quickly and transition play.
He looks to be trying to play as simple a game as possible. He does show flashes of creativity when given open lanes to carry the puck up ice. But his first choice is always to make the outlet pass. On breakouts, he relies on the safest passing option first. Defensively, he positions himself well, can be an outlet to relieve pressure for his partner or to mark an attacking forward; however, he needs to increase his aggression to more effectively box them out. In one-on-ones, he does well with his stick work, stripping pucks or slowing plays until help can arrive, yet he has difficulty reading evolving plays, making him reactionary, and slows his overall pace of play down.
In the offensive zone, he plays an efficient game, identifies when to pinch, when to hold the line and does very well at keeping a cycle going. He is also adept at getting pucks to the net through traffic. He will need to improve his shot release and power to improve scoring chances, but also to have defenders respect the shot to allow him to open passing lanes.
He has an NHL-sized frame, is a right-hand shot, and is still adjusting to the North American style of game and rink. Currently projects as a mid- to late-round prospect
Skating 4/5
Compete 3/5
Puck Control 3/5
Hockey Sense 2.5/5
Shooting 2.5/5
Character 3.5/5