According to the Hockey Writers, at the 2021 NHL Draft, the Edmonton Oilers selected Russian winger Matvei Petrov in Round 6, with the 180th overall pick. That was over 100 picks lower than most analysts had projected the Russian left-winger would be taken, and when Petrov went on to rack up 40 goals and 50 assists as an Ontario Hockey League (OHL) rookie with the North Bay Battalion in 2021-22, it looked like he might be the steal of his draft class.
Petrov, a highly skilled Russian forward who showed so much promise has failed miserably at gaining any traction whatsoever in North America. In a last ditch effort to impress Oilers management, Petrov has the opportunity of a lifetime during the Young Stars Classic Tournament in Penticton, BC.
Petrov went pointless over three games at the annual exhibition event, which took place at the South Okanagan Events Centre from Sept. 13 to 16, featuring teams comprised of top prospects from the Oilers, Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, and Vancouver Canucks organizations. The Oilers ultimately went 0-4, being shutdown by a significant margin.
Now, Petrov finds himself in a crucial position heading into training camp. If he wants any consideration for a pro call up this season, the young Russian will have to do something spectacular to make himself stand out.
source: The Hockey Writers
POLL | ||
21 SEPTEMBRE | 34 ANSWERS Oilers prospect finds himself in a crucial position Will Petrov make the team? | ||
Yes | 14 | 41.2 % |
No | 20 | 58.8 % |
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