Andrei Pustovoy

Scouting Notes

The speed translates to the KHL level, which is substantially above where he should be playing. Despite the jump in competition, it is pretty evident that his B-game can translate at this level. He is all over the ice, with excellent acceleration out of pivots and the ability to create separation from defenders. His speed allows him to find soft ice, get open in scoring areas, and make himself difficult for KHL defenders to contain. He has a decent one-timer around the net and can get it off quickly, while also showing an ability to find open ice on the rush and make one-touch passes. He demonstrates a good understanding of pro breakout concepts and how to use his speed to create opportunities in transition.

He is more effective playing a north-south game than as a primary playmaker, and his puckhandling will need to tighten up to improve his consistency with possession. Defensively, he has a good stick and uses his speed to apply pressure and disrupt opponents. His stop-start ability, combined with backwards skating and a long reach, makes him difficult to escape in tight areas. He can close quickly on puck carriers and create problems through his relentless pursuit and ability to change direction.

He also competes well physically and does not look out of place against pro competition. He fights through contact, battles around the net, and does a good job utilizing his size. He is not afraid to engage physically and will throw his weight around when opportunities present themselves. The combination of speed, size, and willingness to compete gives him a foundation to impact games without needing to be a high-end offensive player. At worst, the speed-size combination projects as a lower-lineup energy winger who can forecheck, pressure defenders, and bring pace and physicality. Given the level of competition, the fact that these elements of his game are already translating is encouraging.