Detroit Red Wings acquire a star Russian in Montreal: He is now ranked number one amongst the organization

When it comes to prospects in the NHL, for General Managers, it's a hit or miss.

With Steve Yzerman's 52nd overall pick in 2022, it was a hit. Dmitri Buchelnikov has been a revelation in the KHL, recently suiting up for HC Vityaz.

The forward may present issues, at a smaller frame of 5'10" and 170 pounds, but smaller-sized players have a knack for finding their spot in modern NHL lineups.

With Buchelnikov's size and speed, he is a threat, a very similar player to Nikita Kucherov.

In 2023-24, he played on loan to the KHL's Admiral Vladivostok, scoring 29 points (13-16) in 55 games.

In 2024-25, he'd increase his production, scoring 54 points (15-39) in 65 games, using his skills to create plays and score more goals.

Should we expect to see his production continue to rise with CKSA Moscow?

If his trajectory is any indicator, he could find himself in the 60-70 point territory, earning an ELC with Detroit and putting Hockeytown on notice.

The forward will have to compete for top honors against Nate Danielson and Max Plante once he arrives here, but that shouldn't be an issue for him.

Once he figures out the North American ice, he could be a fixture in the Grand Rapids Griffins' top six until he's truly NHL-ready.

For Yzerman, this is another case of bargain bin hunting late in the draft paying off.

We're excited to see him compete for a spot in the NHL lineup once he's ready against players like Danielson and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard.