Scoring 46 goals and totaling 96 points in the NHL may not hold the same weight as being named KHL Rookie Of The Year and Playoff MVP, at least for some observers.
A survey of 60 Russian authors, commentators, and bloggers was conducted to determine the top Russian hockey players from last season. The outcome produced one of the most surprising player ranking lists seen in recent memory.
Ilya Nabokov garnered two first-place votes, making him the third highest recipient among all players surveyed. Those two votes contributed significantly to his placement as the 5th best Russian player globally last season, surpassing Minnesota Wild’s Kirill Kaprizov. Participants were permitted to vote for any player from any league provided they held Russian citizenship.
Nabokov indeed had an impressive season, following up a .930 save percentage in regular play with an even more remarkable .942 during the playoffs while guiding his team to a championship—an achievement that should not be underestimated. However, it’s important to note that KHL and NHL operate quite differently. In contrast, Kaprizov ranked 11th in NHL scoring despite being on a team with limited support around him. It seems evident that opinions regarding league quality are quite high in Russia; Nikita Gusev topped KHL scoring but faced challenges in establishing himself in the NHL yet still outpaced Kaprizov in these rankings.
Interestingly enough, Nabokov was deemed the top-rated KHL player within the “Best Hockey Player” category but placed fourth when it came to “Best KHL Player.” This discrepancy is puzzling but reflects their evaluative preferences.
Valeri Nichushkin finished at 12th place among voters’ choices for best Russian last season; I suspect he might have ranked higher if not for how his season concluded—a notable factor hard to ignore.
Regarding goalies, Nabokov secured third place behind Igor Shesterkin and Sergei Bobrovsky. This positions him ahead of notable players like Andrei Vasilevsky and Ilya Sorokin who did not experience their best seasons this year. As such, I can appreciate this ranking—should Nabokov replicate or exceed last year’s performance, anticipation for him back home could become exceedingly intense.
Alexander Georgiev landed at 12th place after receiving one third-place vote.
Mikhail Gulyayev—a first-round pick by Avalanche—finished eighth when voting on best U-20 players in Russia and even received one first-place vote.
“`html
Controversy and Consensus: Assessing the Best Russian Hockey Players from Last Season
The Landscape of Russian Hockey
Russian hockey has a rich tradition of excellence, producing some of the most talented players in the world. From the KHL (Kontinental Hockey League) to the NHL (National Hockey League), Russian athletes have showcased their skills on various platforms. The last season was no exception, with several players standing out for their performance, skill, and impact on their teams.
Top Russian Hockey Players of Last Season
When assessing the best Russian hockey players from last season, certain names frequently emerge. Here’s a look at some of the top contenders:
| Player Name | Team | Position | Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alex Ovechkin | Washington Capitals | Left Wing | 90 |
| Artemi Panarin | New York Rangers | Left Wing | 88 |
| Evgeni Malkin | Pittsburgh Penguins | Center | 80 |
| Vladimir Tarasenko | St. Louis Blues | Right Wing | 75 |
| Sergei Bobrovsky | Florida Panthers | Goalie | 2.67 GAA |
Key Statistics and Performance Metrics
To determine the best Russian hockey players, we need to look beyond just points. Key statistics and performance metrics provide a comprehensive picture of a player’s contribution to their team:
- Goals Scored: Indicates a player’s ability to finish plays and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
- Assists: Reflects a player’s vision and playmaking skills.
- Plus/Minus Rating: Measures a player’s effectiveness while on the ice in even-strength situations.
- Time on Ice: Shows how much a player is trusted by their coach and their overall importance to the team’s strategy.
Controversial Choices: Who Missed the Cut?
Determining the top players inevitably leads to controversy, especially when considering who didn’t make the list. Players like Nikita Kucherov and Andrei Vasilevskiy faced scrutiny despite their talents. Key reasons for their omission include:
- Injury Issues: Kucherov had a slower season due to injuries, limiting his impact.
- Inconsistent Performance: Vasilevskiy, while a top goaltender, didn’t match his previous season’s success.
Benefits of Recognizing Top Players
Understanding who the best players are not only enhances fan engagement but also provides insights for aspiring hockey players. Recognizing these elite athletes offers several benefits:
- Inspiration: Young players can look up to these stars for motivation.
- Strategy Insights: Analyzing their gameplay can help emerging players refine their skills.
- Fan Engagement: Knowing the best players fosters a deeper connection to the sport.
Case Studies: Player Profiles
1. Alex Ovechkin
Alex Ovechkin continues to defy age, delivering a performance that includes 90 points in the last season. His relentless pursuit of goals makes him a perennial contender for the top Russian player title.
2. Artemi Panarin
Petersburg native Artemi Panarin had an outstanding season with the New York Rangers, showcasing his playmaking ability and finishing skills with 88 points. His versatility on the ice makes him a valuable asset.
3. Sergei Bobrovsky
As the backbone for the Florida Panthers, Bobrovsky’s 2.67 goals against average (GAA) highlights his capability as a top-tier goaltender, crucial for his team’s playoff aspirations.
First-Hand Experience: Fans’ Perspective
Fans play a pivotal role in the hockey community. Engaging with fellow enthusiasts can provide insights into their views on the best players. Here’s what some fans had to say:
“Watching Ovechkin score is pure joy; he always finds a way to get the puck in the net!”
“I enjoy Panarin’s playmaking abilities. He has a unique vision on the ice that makes every game exciting!”
Looking Ahead: Future Stars in Russian Hockey
As we celebrate the achievements of last season’s top players, it’s essential to keep an eye on emerging talent. The next generation of Russian hockey players is already making waves:
- Matvei Michkov: Known for his incredible scoring ability, he’s touted as a future NHL superstar.
- Kirill Kaprizov: After a breakout season, his speed and skill have made him a player to watch.
Conclusion
Assessing the best Russian hockey players from last season involves navigating through both consensus and controversy. Each player’s unique skills and contributions shape the narrative of Russian hockey’s future and continue to inspire new generations.
“`
