Toronto Maple Leafs‘ undrafted Russian rookie right wing Nikita Soshnikov(41) is turning heads.
The not exactly huge 5’11” 185 lbs forward was a late training camp cut to be reassigned to affiliate Toronto Marlies.
After two pro seasons in the KHL for Atlanty Mytishchi scoring 14 goals and 18 assists with a +5 in 57 games last season, he appears to be ready for the big league.
Upon his first recall after putting up a rookie tied for first 18 goals and 10 assists with a crazy +24 in 50 AHL games, it was like he was just waiting for his chance to show his abilities.
He definitely skates with a lot of passion and popped in his 1st NHL goal in his second appearance, then got another one a couple nights later, and since added an assist in 6 contests.
The 22-year old will likely stay up through the remainder of the regular calendar but once the playoff starts he’ll be battling with the farm team for the Calder Cup.
They have time as he’s signed on a three year entry deal through 2017/2018.