FlamesNation · Jul 16, 2021
2021 Flames First Round Targets: Nikita Chibrikov
The first round of the 2021 NHL Draft will take place on July 23. Following the results of the draft lottery, the Flames hold the 12th overall selection and will have a chance to add a high-end prospect to their organization.
The Flames haven’t picked a Russian in the first round since they took Oleg Saprykin with the 11th selection of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Nikita Chibrikov is a standout winger from Moscow who could break that trend.
Scouting report
Chibrikov is a 5’10”, 172-pound winger who shoots left but — like many Russian forwards — plays primarily on his off-wing, lining up most often on the right side. He’s a hard-working player with quick hands and good top-end speed.