The story most media told when Russian Vitaly Abramov was drafted 65th overall by the Blue Jackets this past June in Buffalo was how the 18-year-old came from a town that survived a meteor explosion.
But perhaps they buried the lede. The real impact that many should be focusing on when it comes to the left-handed winger is his impressive offensive potential.
There was a noticeable reaction both at the Draft and online when the Jackets selection of Abramov was announced and it immediately became one of the picks viewed as a “steal of the draft.” Many scouts and prospect experts had touted Abramov as an elite talent whose only drawback is his size. Just 5-foot-9 and 174 pounds, Abramov came over to North America last season after being a 2+ point per game player for the Traktor Chelyabinsk U17 team and point+ per game player for the Russian U17 team.
In 2015-16, Abramov impressively became the leading scorer for the Gatineau Olympiques of the QMJHL with 38-55-93 in 63 regular season games and 7-6-13 in 10 post-season games. Whereas many European players struggle as they adjust to a smaller rink and North American style of play, Abramov wasted no time in shredding other team’s defenses and putting up points.
Those who have seen him play say Abramov is shifty, fast, and and can create offense both as a playmaker and as a goal scorer. This skill was on display for Jackets faithful who came out to this Summer’s development camp where Abramov scored three impressive goals in the camp-ending “tournament,” and drew raves from fellow 2016 draftee, Pierre-Luc Dubois.
There are two questions that await answer from Abramov. First, consistency. After such a huge year with a 1.3 point per game pace, proving that isn’t a fluke will set Abramov up nicely to advance into the AHL and hopefully the NHL. Second, that pesky height thing. Overcoming small stature isn’t something that’s rare for the Jackets (Ahem, Cam Atkinson) let alone in the NHL (Martin St. Louis) but it is definitely a noticeable challenge.
Future Outlook
Abramov will return to Gatineau for his sophomore season with the team and should continue to develop his offense while strengthening his defensive play. His name may not be one we hear in international play, but don’t consider that a statement on his abilities – leaving Russia to play in another country isn’t always an endearing quality to roster-makers.
If he can maintain his speed and skill against higher levels of competition, Abramov could be the kind of elite talent the Jackets would love to have on the wing.
Age: 18 (05/08/1998)
Position: LW / RW
Shoots: Left
Height / Weight: 5’9″ / 174 lbs.
2015/16 Team: Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)
Likely 2016/17 Destination: Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
