Kucherov/Slepyshev

[Rad64]

I thought both of these kids played well in World Juniors. Nice to see the Oilers pick up Slepyshev (could be a steal there).

Projections? Predictions?

[Fast Tony DeNiro]

I really like Kucherov, although part of what I liked his how well his game would have meshed with Stamkos. With Drouin now in Tampa that possibility might be gone. He does have a game fit for a top line and if nothing else could become a top PP producer.

Slepyshev is a little tougher to gauge. He is a very good player, but was completely passed over in the draft last year because he's signed in Russia and has never really come out and showed interest in playing in the NHL. With the Oilers drafting him, with Yakupov and Belov on the team, along with Zharkov in the system I'm sure they're hoping to convince him to come over.

Both have top line potential. Check out Kucherov's stats from the MHL, the U18 a couple years ago, and the Quebec league. Obviously stat watching yada yada but it gives you a clue of his explosive ability.

[Big Ev]

wouldn't count on either being NHL regulars (KHL of course, not because of talent).

that being said I think Kucherov would bet he obvious superior player of the two and he is in a decent situation going forward. I wouldn't touck Russians but I would recommend Kucherov if you want either of these two

[bigbabybuda]

Slepyshev has stated if I'm correct that he has no intention of ever coming over so I would go with Kucherov. Of course Slepyshev could change his mind but I think there is a far greater chance at this point of Kucherov playing in the NHL.

[Bronz]

Kucherov has a lot of skill - I'd definately go with him. Even with Drouin, talented players will get a chance to show what they can do. Tampa has a lot of good forward prospects, and the majority of them are a lot closer to getting a shot to stay then Kucherov - having said that Kucherov in my opinion is the most talented of them (besides Drouin) and has legit first line potential.