With the 74th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, the Buffalo Sabres selected Viktor Neuchev, a left winger from Avto Yekaterinburg of the Russian MHL.
Viktor Neuchev is a very talented prospect with elite puck skills and agility. He can carve his way through tight areas with ease.
He has 40 points (23G/17A) in 41 GP this season, 10 more than any teammate. I like him as an early 2nd round option. #2022NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/FEx4zWFDS8
— Ben Misfeldt (@BBMHockey) January 14, 2022
Best known for his shot and scoring prowess; Neuchev pocketed 40 goals in 61 games for his MHL club. I only had a couple viewings of him and I came away with that he’s too selfish in his approach to the game, but does have a toolbox that is interesting. He tries to make skilled plays that he can’t pull off consistently yet, but if the skill level improves just a little bit he could be a menace as an offensive forward.
Viktor Neuchev (’22) scores the overtime winner vs. Perm.#2022NHLDraft | 🎥 #MHL pic.twitter.com/5sNKzZhdEK
— Dylan Griffing (@GriffingDylan) August 15, 2021
His skating will have to come up a bit as his pace is pretty low. A swing on size and skill from Adams with this 3rd round selection.
Neuchev is the first Russian player selected by the Sabres this year.