With their final pick in the 2015 NHL Draft, the Buffalo Sabres have selected defenseman Ivan Chukarov from the Minnesota Wilderness of the NAHL.
The left-handed Chukarov stands at 6’2”, and is a bit older than most prospects at 20 years of age. He put up nice numbers this year in Minnesota, 12-31-43 in 55 games, and will be attending UMass in the fall.
“A mobile, puck-moving defenseman that can play both sides of the puck” -UMass HC John Micheletto. Chukarov +38 last year for the Wilderness
— Kris Baker (@SabresProspects) June 27, 2015
From UMass blog Fear the Triangle:
Chukarov had the 4th most points for defensemen in the league during the regular season. The Wilderness have made it to the NAHL semi-finals where they’ll face Janesville. Chukarov has six assists in eight playoff games. He recently spoke to the Duluth New Tribune about his decision to join the Minutemen. Chukarov was recently named the NAHL Midwest Division Defenseman of the Year and was honored with his selection to the All-NAHL team. Chukarov and the Wilderness won the NAHL championship.