2008 NHL Draft: Evgeny Grachev

Leading up to the 2008 draft, Flordiapanthers.com will be highlighting some of the top prospects to look out for. Could the Panthers draft one of these players with their pick in the second round or might they move up to grab one of these top players to further bolster their system and hope they contribute to the big club one day?

Each week day, we'll take a look at three prospects and get Panthers Director of Amateur Scouting Scott Luce's opinion on each of them.

2008 NHL Entry Draft Site

---

    Evgeny Grachev
    Rank: No. 9 (European)
    Position: Center
    Height/Weight: 6-3, 202
    D.O.B. Feb. 21, 1990

STATISTICS

Season	Team	League	GP	G	A	PTS	PIM
2006-07	Yaroslavl 2	Russia-3	28	7	6	13	6
2007-08	Yaroslavl	Russia	1	0	0	0	0

THE SKINNY

Scored game-winning goal to help Russia beat Team Canada in round-robin play at 2008 IIHF Under-18 World Championships. Finished tournament with five points (2-3) in six games, helping Russia win a silver medal

WHAT CENTRAL SCOUTING SAYS

A power forward with good physical presence and ability to come up with the puck in traffic areas. Displays strong puck skills and ability to make plays all over the ice, but needs to improve acceleration and overall speed.

WHAT PANTHER SCOUT SCOTT LUCE SAYS

Good use of size and strength.  Has lots of potential to work with.