The Penguins selected Belarusian goaltender Matvei Nikonovich with the fifth-round pick they acquired on Saturday.
Nikonovich, who turns 18 years old on Sunday, is 6 foot 2 and 187 pounds, and catches with his left hand. He spent last year with Ladia Togliatti in the Russian junior league, where he recorded a .939 save percentage, 1.96 goals-against average and two shutouts in 38 games.
Elite Prospects described Nikonovich as "an impressive mover, with powerful strides that allow him to push over to his intended target efficiently. He’s also very intentional with his hands, relying on his strong tracking and positioning his hands outwards to cut down shooting angles."
THE ASYLUM
Penguins trade picks, take Belarusian goalie
The Penguins selected Belarusian goaltender Matvei Nikonovich with the fifth-round pick they acquired on Saturday.
Nikonovich, who turns 18 years old on Sunday, is 6 foot 2 and 187 pounds, and catches with his left hand. He spent last year with Ladia Togliatti in the Russian junior league, where he recorded a .939 save percentage, 1.96 goals-against average and two shutouts in 38 games.
Elite Prospects described Nikonovich as "an impressive mover, with powerful strides that allow him to push over to his intended target efficiently. He’s also very intentional with his hands, relying on his strong tracking and positioning his hands outwards to cut down shooting angles."
Want to participate in our comments?
Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits!
We’d love to have you!