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sports1d ago
Nikita Klepov: 2026 NHL Draft Prospect Profile: A Gifted Playmaker With Incredible Puck Skills
- Klepov is described as a highly skilled winger with elite puck handling and strong playmaking ability.
- He led the OHL in scoring this season with 97 points in 67 games for the Saginaw Spirit.
- Several scouts rate Klepov around the mid-first round, reflecting strong, but varied, opinions on his future.
- Critics flag skating as a potential hurdle, noting clunky stride and average speed.
- Klepov has already drawn interest from college and pro organizations, including Michigan State.
- Analysts disagree on how his skating and physical game will affect his top-six potential.
- Constantino and Wheeler praise his sense for the game and power-play aptitude.
- The Athletic's Pronman places Klepov lower, citing average athleticism and potential fit concerns.
- Smaht Scouting highlights skating issues but commend strong puck protection and vision.
- Klepov's 97-point season is used as a benchmark for his offensive potential entering the draft.
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